Systems such as smart keys for young drivers and eCall, that are
starting to come on to the market, hold future promise. In general,
most of the devices for improvement of braking and handling affect
driver behaviour, and the questions of driver acceptance, risk
compensation and driver reaction, when the system is activated, are
important.
For example, Emergency Brake Assist is often cited as a safety
related ADAS. Prospective studies have indicated some benefits,
while a study of real accidents has indicated some benefit, though
not statistically significant, when Emergency Brake Assist is
combined with other measures. However, its contribution to road
safety is, as yet, not demonstrated. Collision Avoidance systems offer
future promise and are receiving much attention though, again, the
safety effects are as yet unknown.
ADAS uses sophisticated electronics and advanced software, coupled with
sensors that assist drivers in avoiding errors in judgment. Research suggests
that the majority of road accidents happen due to human errors caused by
distracted driving. In such a case, wouldn’t accepting the assistance of
technology to mitigate the imperfect driving behavior of gullible human beings
make perfect sense for most drivers?
Multiple variants of modern vehicles have such systems pre-installed to help
every driver in avoiding accidents, collisions or even any out-of-control driving
experience. Without interfering too much, the technology is smart enough to
alert the driver in time and also take control of the vehicle, only if and when the
need arises. The adaptive features also help automate lighting, GPS/traffic
warnings; engage emergency braking, cruise control, lane-changing assistance;
offer a bird’s-eye view, drowsiness alerts, connect to smartphones, and reveal
blind spots. Hence, implementation of ADAS components is as beneficial to the
aged driver like it is for the young driver.
5
While comparing capabilities with task demands, the simple rule says that if
capabilities of the driver are higher than task demands, then he/she will be in
command and things will be easy to handle. However, if task demands are
higher, due to whatever reasons, it will be tough for a driver to drive smoothly
under difficult situations and the journey might end up in a crash.
In such a scenario, where task demands are high, ADAS comes into play. It
intervenes and helps the driver to get the situation under control. This can be
done by prompting the driver to lower his speed, change the trajectory or
relative-vehicle position or by communicating with other drivers on the road
with indicator lights. Accordingly, ADAS supports the drivers in lowering the task
demand and helps their capabilities to get the upper hand in averting a probable
crash.
With such enhancements in every turn of the wheel or push of the pedal, this is
how ADAS enhances the abstract of ‘driving experience’ for one and all in
multiple ways.
VEHICLE TECHNOLOGIES AND ROAD
CASUALITIES REDUCTION