Drivers Unaware Of The Limitations Of Safety Features

Nashville Distracted Driving Accident Attorneys

12/27/2018 Car Accidents John Whitfield

The automotive industry has taken great strides to manufacture cars with impressive and life-saving safety technology. While things like automatic braking and blind spot detection have likely prevented millions of car accidents, even the most advanced motor vehicle safety technology available does not provide complete protection. Auto safety features should be used as tools, not the ultimate determining factors when driving. Unfortunately, a new study has found drivers are unaware of the limitations of the safety features on their vehicles.

The study was conducted by the American Automobile Association Foundation for Traffic Safety. The study surveyed owners of 2016 and 2017 model-year vehicles equipped with any combination of forward-collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warnings, active lane control, blind-spot monitors, rear cross-traffic alerts, and adaptive cruise control. The majority of drivers reported trusting their vehicle safety technology, and stated they thought the technology was useful. Over seven out of ten owners stated they wanted the same safety technology in their next vehicle.

While most of the surveyed drivers liked and wanted enhanced safety features, only 21% knew the limitations of blind sport monitoring technology. For instance, blind spot monitoring struggles to identify vehicles passing at high speeds. With regard to automatic braking, 33% of drivers with this feature didn’t know the vehicle’s sensors or cameras could be obstructed by dirt or snow.

Many drivers reported other dangerous over-reliance behaviors, including engaging in other activities while active cruise control was in use, using blind spot monitoring systems to change lanes without visually checking blind spots, and backing up without looking over their shoulder. This over-reliance is extremely dangerous. While these technologies can help prevent roadway accidents, enhanced automobile safety features should not be used as a replacement for attentive driving. Drivers should always use their own eyes to check for traffic and never take their eyes off the road. Drivers have no right to endanger the lives of other drivers and pedestrians on the roadway. Drivers that cause motor vehicle accidents because of an over-reliance on safety technology can be held responsible for their recklessness.

Nashville Distracted Driving Attorneys

If you or someone you love was injured in a Nashville car accident, you likely have many questions. The experienced Nashville distracted driving attorneys at Whitfield Bryson LLP can explain your legal options and protect your rights. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.