Every year, auto manufacturers introduce new technologies to make driving easier and keep motorists safe on the road. Over time, these technologies have become commonplace on both luxury and economy vehicles.
One great example is adaptive cruise control. Unlike traditional cruise control, this technology automatically adjusts a vehicle’s speed to match that of the car ahead.
Adaptive cruise control is clearly an advancement over traditional cruise control. However, the question remains: how safe is it? Here’s what you need to know.
How Does Adaptive Cruise Control Work?
Adaptive cruise control helps you keep a safe following distance on the highway while also maintaining your desired cruising speed.
Here’s how it works:
- You set your parameters (desired cruising speed and following distance).
- When the road is clear, the car maintains your chosen cruising speed.
- If a car appears ahead, the system slows your vehicle to match its speed.
- If the slower car moves out of the way, your vehicle will accelerate back up to your chosen speed.
Most adaptive cruise control systems rely on several types of sensors, including cameras, radar, and lidar (light detection and ranging), to operate effectively.
How Adaptive Cruise Control Can Improve Driving Safety
Adaptive cruise control comes with several notable safety advantages, including the following:
Reducing The Risk Of Rear-End Collisions
Because this technology helps drivers maintain a safe following distance, it can significantly reduce the likelihood of rear-end accidents.
Decreasing Driver Fatigue
Drivers who use these systems don’t have to switch between the brake pedal and the accelerator constantly. Because they’re less fatigued, they may be better able to avoid accidents.
Improving Traffic Flow
The braking and acceleration of an adaptive cruise control system are more fluid than those of many human drivers. As a result, traffic flow may be smoother and more efficient overall.
Potential Dangers Of Adaptive Cruise Control
Like any other driver-assistance tool, adaptive cruise control can be dangerous when used incorrectly. Here are a few possible risks to keep in mind:
Over-Reliance On Technology
Adaptive cruise control adjusts a vehicle’s speed to maintain a certain following distance. However, it doesn’t control other driving functions, like emergency braking. If a driver becomes disengaged or distracted while using the technology, they’re more likely to be involved in a car or truck accident.
Sensor Failure
High-tech sensors power adaptive cruise control, but those sensors aren’t infallible. Snow, fog, and heavy rain may lead to system malfunctions, which in turn could lead to crashes. Unexpected technological glitches can still occur, even when the weather is clear.
Speeding
Multiple studies conducted over several years have shown that drivers who use standard or adaptive cruise control are more likely to speed. However, it’s difficult to determine the extent to which this has an impact on safety. For instance, one study found that the use of adaptive cruise control increased crash risk by 1.8%, while another study found that it increased crash risk by 8%.
The Bottom Line: Is Adaptive Cruise Control Safe?
Many people are quick to label a particular technology as completely safe or completely dangerous. However, like many driver-assistance technologies, adaptive cruise control should be considered safe when used correctly. If a driver becomes distracted or relies too heavily on the technology, they could be putting themselves and others in jeopardy.
That being said, adaptive cruise control can be helpful in many situations. As long as you remember that this tool isn’t the same as self-driving technology, you’ll be far more likely to reach your destination safely.
Contact Farnsworth & Vance Personal Injury Lawyers Today For A Free Consultation With An Anchorage Car Accident Lawyer
If you were hurt in a crash involving a vehicle using adaptive cruise control—or if a driver’s overreliance on this technology caused your accident—you may be entitled to compensation. At Farnsworth & Vance Personal Injury Lawyers, our Anchorage car accident attorneys can review your case, explain your legal options, and help you fight for the financial recovery you deserve.
For more information, please contact Farnsworth & Vance Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation. We have two locations in Alaska, including Anchorage and Eagle River.
Farnsworth & Vance Personal Injury Lawyers – Anchorage
2525 Gambell St #410,
Anchorage, AK 99503
(907) 290-8980
Farnsworth & Vance Personal Injury Lawyers – Eagle River
13135 Old Glenn Hwy, Suite 101
Eagle River, AK 99577
(907) 802-4097
