LEWES, Del. - A new study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety says that drivers with experience using Advanced Driver Assistance Systems like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist were twice as likely to drive distracted while using the systems, than when they were not using them.
“Systems like this will basically help the driver remain safe on the road, and also will do some of the basic things that they have always relied on themselves,” says Bill Hansen, the Co-Owner of First State Chevrolet.
AAA also says that with this new technology, drivers become complacent.
Bryan Hecksher has been selling cars for 30 years, and he says using common sense is critical.
"That's something people need to use -- their own sense and their own capabilities. Should they go, should they not go? What’s the distance between them? What’s the safest spot to stop or pull over?...Adaptive cruise control has been in cars for many years, [it] cut down on accidents. But when people become dependent on these features, that’s when problems come into play," says Hecksher, the General Manager of Auto Gallery.
AAA’s research also said that drivers with less experience using these systems, were more likely to pay attention and remain engaged while the systems were on.
"It's really about knowing the vehicle, knowing the safety systems that are on board with your vehicle, and being aware of how they work prior to driving your vehicle," Hansen adds.
In the AAA study, Dr. William Van Tassel, AAA manager of driver training programs said “Remember, technology fails us daily while at work and at home. So, don’t get caught driving distracted when being focused on the road can save your life.”
“They’re great as a second tool, [but] your common sense is your first approach," Hecksher adds as a reminder.
