Why auto safety technology cannot prevent all crashes
Auto accidents are an ongoing concern in Louisville and throughout Kentucky. While many people correctly assume that human behavior causes these crashes, the belief that self-driving vehicles will largely eliminate them may be misplaced. This should be considered as a growing number of autonomous vehicles are on the road.
Study examined what causes accidents
In a recent report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, self-driving vehicles were found to reduce some accidents, but the technology might not prevent a large portion of crashes.
In the study, driver-related issues were the important factor in a series of events that sparked 9 in 10 motor vehicle accidents. Around one-third of the accidents were such that an autonomous vehicle would have prevented them due to vehicle programming.
More than 5,000 crashes were assessed and categorized by the following factors:
- Drivers whose perception and sensory abilities were hindered due to distraction
- Drivers making mistakes when judging other vehicles’ speed and probable actions
- Drivers failing to adjust to adverse road conditions
- Drivers making the wrong maneuvers to prevent a collision
- Driver incapacitation such as using intoxicating substances or driving while drowsy
Perception errors and incapacitation errors combined for 34 percent of the collisions. This leaves the remaining two-thirds of factors where the vehicle itself would need specific programming that is not yet implemented or available, making it unlikely that these accidents could be prevented.
Do you have questions?
Motor vehicle accidents will continue. They can lead to injuries, high medical costs, lost income and other challenges. Legal action often is needed to recover fair compensation. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, speak with an experienced lawyer.