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ADAS May Be Reliable, but Concerns Remain

Law Office of Kari Holm Fawcett

Advanced driver-assistance systems, or ADAS, are becoming the norm for newer vehicles, and the global market for this tech is expected to grow from $27 billion in 2020 to $83 billion by 2030. ADAS features cannot prevent all accidents, though. Perhaps you were in a crash in Maryland despite your use or the other driver’s use of ADAS.

The Positive Side of ADAS

Before getting into the drawbacks, though, let’s see where ADAS succeeds. Using features like forward and rear collision warning, pedestrian detection and cross-traffic alert, the system can alert drivers to an impending crash. Then, with automatic emergency braking, the vehicle can brake to avoid the crash if drivers are unresponsive.

ADAS usually comes with lane departure warning as well. This keeps drivers, who may otherwise be distracted or sleepy, in their lane. Another important feature is adaptive cruise control, which, besides minimizing fuel consumption, maintains a safe distance from other vehicles.

What Studies Have Shown About ADAS

LexisNexis Risk Solutions says that vehicles with ADAS see a 27% reduction in the rate of bodily injury claims and a 19% decline in the rate of property damage claims. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says that vehicles with blind-spot detection, when compared with the same models without it, experience 14% fewer collisions.

High Cost, Glitches and Distractions

Some drivers have ambivalent feelings regarding ADAS. It’s expensive to install and repair, for instance, and not all the kinks have been worked out. The automatic emergency braking is known to activate at unnecessary times. Another serious concern is with complacency stemming from an over-reliance on ADAS. Drivers, not understanding the limits of ADAS, may think that they can sit back and use their phone while the car drives for them.

Seeing a Lawyer for A Case Evaluation

It might be that a driver who became inattentive from continual ADAS use caused your accident. Under personal injury law, you could be eligible for compensation, but it may be advisable to consult a lawyer before filing a claim. The lawyer may be able to help you achieve a reasonable settlement out of court.