A third of drivers are switching off lifesaving technology in their vehicles – with campaigners calling for a Highway Code rule change as a result of the move
Motorists have been warned about changes to the Highway Code after it was revealed that a third of drivers are “switching off” crucial car features.
Campaigners are now calling for a rule change in response to the worrying trend of drivers disabling lifesaving technology in their vehicles. A mere 25 per cent of drivers regularly use potentially life-saving features such as collision warnings and cruise control, despite their proven ability to prevent accidents, according to a new report.
The IAM RoadSmart 2024 Road Safety Report, which surveyed over 2,000 drivers, found that speed warnings on dashboards were the most commonly used aid, with 28 per cent of drivers regularly using this feature.
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Cruise control was not far behind, with 27 per cent of drivers regularly using it. However, this feature also had the highest proportion of people never using it (34 per cent), even though their vehicles are equipped with the system.
Only 23 per cent of drivers regularly use collision warning assistance, reports Birmingham Live. Nicholas Lyes, IAM RoadSmart Director of Policy and Standards, said: “It’s ironic that so many rely on technology on a day-to-day basis, yet within their vehicles, drivers at best seem ambivalent about using technology systems that could save their lives if these were engaged.
“Part of the issue is likely to be a lack of understanding of how each of these systems can benefit them.
“Many might switch off certain systems because the alarm might be irritating or because they don’t like the feel of the steering wheel autocorrecting to keep the vehicle in a lane. Manufacturers are consistently improving the technology, but this will take time.
“There’s potentially an exercise for both individuals and fleet managers to ensure drivers and colleagues learn more about these systems, as well as advisories being added into the next round of Highway Code changes.
“While we need more consumer awareness of how these aids work, it’s important to remember that driver assistance systems should always compliment safe driving rather than be a replacement for it.”
Younger drivers aged 17-34 are around twice as likely to use driver assistance systems compared to those aged 70 or over, with male drivers also showing higher usage.
Those clocking up at least 10,000 miles or more annually are also far more likely to engage with this technology, primarily due to its utility for work journeys.
