By: Blair Qualey
Keeping British Columbians safe on the road is a priority for both automakers and drivers, and technology continues to play an important role in achieving that goal. I recently shared a piece discussing the evolution of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), and how this technology is helping to keep drivers safe on the road by reducing the risk of collisions and supporting and enhancing the driver’s awareness and control. Features such as blind spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, and forward collision alerts are designed to support drivers by improving awareness and reducing the risk of accidents.
However, while these technologies have been widely embraced, new research suggests that the way drivers respond to them may be more complicated than expected. And at the end of the day, the human driver is the one responsible for safely navigating the roads.
A recent study that examined data from almost 200,000 vehicles looked at how different driver assistance features affected behaviour behind the wheel. The findings were somewhat surprising. Systems considered “less urgent,” like blind spot detection, were associated with a reduction in risky driving, including fewer instances of hard braking. In fact, drivers with these aids were found to brake suddenly almost seven per cent less often than those without them.
On the other hand, vehicles equipped with “highly urgent” systems such as forward collision and lane departure warnings actually showed an increase in sudden braking, rising by close to six per cent. What this new research indicates is that drivers may be over-relying on the technology that perhaps provides a false sense of reassurance that leads to more aggressive or less cautious driving.
At the same time, the study confirmed that both categories of driver aids still contributed to fewer collisions overall. Forward collision and lane departure warnings were linked to a 15 per cent reduction in crashes, while blind spot systems contributed to a 19 per cent reduction compared to vehicles without those features. The bottom line is that ADAS does improve road safety, but it also highlights the need for continued attention to how these systems are designed, marketed, and understood by drivers.
This balance between assistance and accountability is an important reminder for all of us. Automakers continue to innovate and refine these technologies, but no system can replace the judgment and attentiveness of a driver. Education about what these features can and cannot do is just as important as the technology itself. Drivers need to understand that ADAS is meant to support, not replace, their responsibility on the road. For dealerships, there is also an opportunity to provide that education at the point of sale, helping customers become more confident and informed users of the latest safety features.
For British Columbians, where road conditions can vary dramatically from busy urban intersections to winding mountain highways, understanding how to use ADAS properly can make a significant difference. A blind spot monitor may provide extra reassurance when merging on Highway 1, while lane departure warnings can be especially helpful on long drives through the Interior. But in every case, these features are tools, not replacements for active, careful driving.
Ultimately, the message for drivers is clear: take advantage of the safety features your vehicle offers, but don’t let them replace your instincts and attention. By using ADAS responsibly and staying engaged behind the wheel, we can all contribute to safer roads across British Columbia. And as always, if you want to learn more about these new features, talk to your local new car dealer!
Blair Qualey is President and CEO of the New Car Dealers Association of BC. You can email him at [email protected].
