BOISE – As automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems become ubiquitous in late-model American vehicles, a new technology designed to prevent dangerous crashes at intersections reveals the promise and pitfalls of modern innovation.

AAA recently evaluated the performance of four 2026 model vehicles equipped with intersection AEB.  When the test vehicles attempted to cross in front of a robotic soft car with the turn signal activated, all four systems successfully avoided a collision with oncoming traffic.

However, when the turn signal wasn’t activated, one of the four vehicles didn’t issue a forward collision warning or apply the brakes, striking the soft car in all three test runs.

When the soft car pulled out into the path of the test vehicles, the results were even worse.  One system avoided contact every time, but the other three systems struck the soft car every time.

“As technology advances, it is still designed to assist human drivers, not replace them,” says AAA Idaho public affairs director Matthew Conde.  “By properly using your turn signals and other devices, you’re helping the car understand your intentions and support them appropriately.”

AAA reminds drivers that good habits can help clear up the confusion.  For example, when you use your turn signal to change lanes on the freeway, your vehicle will be less likely to assume you’re drifting from your lane and attempt to correct your action.

AAA testing was completed in Southern California at a private AAA test track.  In every scenario where a vehicle was tested at the intersection, a robotic soft car represented the other vehicle.

AAA tips

  • Do your research before you buy.  Find out how vehicles are equipped and how their safety performance is rated.  Check for active vehicle recalls and other potential concerns.
  • Take a test drive and ask the salesperson how the vehicle’s safety systems work.
  • Double check insurance, maintenance, and financing charges before making a purchase – advanced systems may cost more to replace and recalibrate in the event of a crash.

“Intersections can be very deadly, especially when someone runs the light,” Conde said.  “As good as these systems may be, it still takes good driving to avoid overdependence on them.”