New research shows partial automation increases risk of distracted driving

WEB DESK: New research reveals that drivers are more likely to engage in non-driving activities, like checking their phones or eating, when using partial automation systems in their cars.

Some drivers also manage to bypass rules aimed at reducing distractions. The findings, released on Tuesday, came from a study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

The month-long study focused on two systems: Tesla’s Autopilot and Volvo’s Pilot Assist. It examined how drivers behaved when using these technologies and how their habits changed over time.

Why it matters

While fully driverless cars have been slow to roll out, many automakers are racing to introduce features that partially automate everyday driving tasks.

These systems are meant to make driving easier and safer, while also generating revenue for car companies. However, this rush to adopt automation has raised concerns about distracted driving and accidents involving such technology.

The IIHS report highlighted that stronger safety measures are needed to keep drivers attentive while using these systems.

How partial automation works

Partial automation is part of a larger group of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). These systems rely on cameras, sensors, and software to manage the car’s speed by monitoring other vehicles and keeping the car centred in its lane. Some even allow for automatic lane changes.

However, drivers must still pay attention to the road at all times and be ready to take control of the vehicle if necessary, with many systems requiring drivers to keep their hands on the wheel.

David Harkey, the president of IIHS, said, “The results show how people learn. If you train them to think paying attention means just touching the steering wheel every few seconds, that’s exactly what they’ll do.”

In both studies, drivers started engaging in more distracting activities over time. Harkey stressed that these findings highlight the need for stronger safeguards to prevent misuse of the technology.

Study findings

In the study with Tesla’s Autopilot, 14 participants drove over 19,000 km with the system. They triggered 3,858 warnings related to attention, and drivers typically responded in about three seconds, usually by touching the steering wheel to avoid further warnings.

The Volvo Pilot Assist study involved 29 participants, who were found to be distracted about 30 per cent of the time when using the system. The researchers called this a “concerningly high” figure, further underscoring the need for better safety measures.

Read next: When will 12th gen Toyota Corolla launch in Pakistan?