Drivers worried by driverless future

Research by IAM RoadSmart, has revealed that 60% of motorists consider the growing ability of vehicles to drive themselves as a serious threat to road safety.

This is despite well-documented evidence that most road incidents are actually caused by human error.

Neil Greig, IAM RoadSmart director of policy and research, said: “Autonomous and automated vehicle technology is becoming an integral part of everyday motoring and while it does have the capacity to improve road safety, its capabilities must be fully understood to ensure we don’t over rely on them.

“Over reliance on these systems, and a lack of training on how to use them, could have a negative effect, with potentially worrying results for motorists and pedestrians alike.

“As an ever-increasing number of vehicle systems take on the tasks that drivers used to perform, IAM RoadSmart is calling for an understanding of automated features to be included in the UK driving test.”

According to government projections, 40% of UK new car sales could have self-driving capabilities in less than 15 years. Meanwhile, advocates for a push towards autonomous vehicle technology also highlight the financial benefits to the UK economy, possibly almost worth £42bn by 2035 together with the creation of nearly 40,000 British jobs.