With vehicle technology changing and the future of mobility evolving at lightning speed, AAA continues to serve as a trusted source of information. We’re here to help clear up the confusion.
Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane position monitoring, have the potential to significantly improve safety for all road users. According to new research by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, current levels of ADAS technology may prevent as many as 37 million crashes, 14 million injuries and 250,000 deaths nationwide over the next 30 years.
While ADAS have the potential to increase safety and save lives, it’s important to remember that they are not a substitute for an attentive driver and good driving behaviors. Drivers have to understand how these systems work and what their limitations are. Our family has a Jeep and a Volvo EV, both equipped with ADAS. While these systems can assist with things such as steering and braking, they do not work 100% of the time, nor were they designed to do so.
AAA urges vehicle manufacturers to continue developing the next generation of driver assistance systems and to give them names that accurately describe what they do. As we’ve stated previously, some names don’t accurately reflect current limitations. We also advocate for well-designed roads, thoughtful transportation planning, appropriate speed limits, engaged drivers, and other effective countermeasures as part of the Safe Systems approach. A balanced effort holds the key to a safer tomorrow.
While “ADAS” may not be part of your regular vocabulary, another acronym–EV–is likely more familiar. As electric vehicles increase in popularity, AAA continues its mission of making your road trip a smooth and seamless experience.
Our TripTik Travel Planner and AAA mobile app help you locate the EV charging stations along your journey. We’re also expanding our EV emergency road service so we can charge a depleted battery on the roadside. If you’re heading out on a holiday vacation, please visit a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility to ensure your vehicle is ready for the road. As always, you can recharge yourself and your electric vehicle at several of our AAA Service Centers in Oregon and Idaho. For more information, please visit AAA.com.
What vehicle is right for you, and how much will it really cost to own and operate? The AAA Car Guide rates dozens of late-model vehicles including EVs on energy efficiency and performance. To learn more, please visit AAA.com/carguide. If you’d like to experience driving an electric vehicle, consider renting one from Hertz and receive a AAA member discount. Visit AAA.com/Hertz.
How do you feel about new vehicle technology and the future of mobility? Please email me at President@AAAOregonIdaho.com or write to me at 600 SW Market St., Portland, OR 97201 or 7155 W. Denton St., Boise ID 83704.
Your fellow AAA member,
Tim Morgan, President and CEO