There are drivers in Malaysia who switch off many ADAS features in their cars.

Who are these drivers? Well to start, some of us drivers do not like ADAS interfering with our daily drive as it makes us ‘lazy’ drivers (less alert) and it is VERY intrusive in many traffic situations.

Fact, (shared from a Australian study) automated speed controls and automatic braking are so annoying to British drivers that they are turning them off, suggesting technology designed for safety may actually be a source of distraction and irritation and no wonder, with cars suddenly braking or misreading speed limits.

That’s according to research from Which?, a UK consumer organisation, which found 54 percent of the 1,500 drivers it surveyed choose to disable at least one of five main Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) in their car some of the time.

European regulators began requiring ADAS in 2022, making specific features mandatory in new models from 2022 and in existing models last year. These include intelligent speed assistance, advanced emergency braking, lane keeping assist, driver drowsiness, and “black box” event data recorders.

Meanwhile, in Australia, a survey conducted by IAG which is Australia’s largest general insurer which owns companies such as RACV, RACQ and NRMA  which polled 2000 local drivers, 60 percent of participants confessed to turning off their cars advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). Additionally, 38 percent of drivers said ADAS features are distracting, while 34 percent admitted that these safety systems can sometimes make driving more difficult or dangerous.

Incidentally, the use of Autopilot or advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) is increasing and accidents associated to them are also on the increase because many drivers trust completely in the technology that has yet to be field tested 100 percent.

The increase in accidents when Autopilot is in use can be partially attributed to the growing number of vehicles equipped with these technologies and the increased reliance drivers place on them, sometimes leading to inattentiveness on the road.

While autopilot can be beneficial for routine tasks, it’s crucial to be aware of its limitations and potential risks. A driver on autopilot may not notice a merging lane ending and attempt to change lanes abruptly, causing a collision.

By understanding the dangers of autopilot and practicing active engagement, it is possible to minimize risks and ensure safety in various situations.