Drivers ‘need ADAS assistance’

Drivers need to be taught how to make the most of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to ensure they are a help not a hazard, according to IAM RoadSmart.

The UK road safety charity has urged vehicle manufacturers, dealerships, DVSA (Driving and Vehicle Standards Agency) and driving instructors to include a comprehensive lesson for motorists on the technology.

Some of the most widely known ADAS – many of which will become mandatory in new vehicles from July 2022 – include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking systems, lane keeping assist and driver monitoring for drowsiness and distraction recognition. However, awareness and understanding of these systems is generally low among drivers.

Neil Greig, IAM RoadSmart director of policy and research, said: “[ADAS] have the potential to improve road safety, but only if used correctly. If used incorrectly, not least without a full understanding of what the systems are and are not capable of, they can have the opposite effect, with potentially worrying consequences for all road users.

“IAM RoadSmart therefore believes the time has now come to include a comprehensive lesson from every car dealer supplying vehicles and further, for more about ADAS to be included in the UK driving test. This is crucial as these tools begin to be supplied as standard on an increasing number of vehicles.”

Greig continued: “There needs to be a much higher emphasis on educating drivers in the best use of technology. Vehicle manufacturers and car dealerships are key, ensuring that when a customer drives off the forecourt they understand and use the various safety systems correctly. Until this becomes the norm, IAM RoadSmart is exploring the potential for video tutorials that will plug the current gap.”