IIHS: Drivers More Likely To Engage With Distractions While Using Hands-Free Driving Technologies

by Chris Teague

Published: September 23rd, 2024

iihs drivers more likely to engage with distractions while using hands free driving

Automakers pitch semi-automated driver assistance features as the future of automotive safety, but a recent study from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety suggests otherwise. It found that drivers are much more likely to engage with distractions while using the systems, such as checking their phones, eating, or other activities.

IIHS president David Harkey said, “The results are a good reminder of the way people learn. If you train them to think that paying attention means nudging the steering wheel every few seconds, then that’s exactly what they’ll do.” He continued, “In both these studies, drivers adapted their behavior to engage in distracting activities. This demonstrates why partial automation systems need more robust safeguards to prevent misuse.”

The IIHS studied drivers using Volvo’s Pilot Assist system and Tesla’s Autopilot system in two separate studies. Drivers in both were found to be more distracted, with many increasing their levels of disengagement with driving as they became more comfortable with the technologies.

While partial automation systems can be helpful, bringing cameras, radar, LiDAR, and other sensors, they aren’t capable of replacing a human driver – yet. The difficulties experienced by GM’s Cruise and other robotaxi services perfectly illustrate that point, as even dedicated driverless vehicles struggle to cope with heavy traffic, and many still require a room full of humans monitoring the vehicles’ every move.

Automakers’ marketing language doesn’t help, either, as calling a technology “full self-driving” can impart a false sense of security when the systems aren’t currently able to handle all of the responsibilities that come with driving in a dense urban area.

[Images: Ford, General Motors, Shutterstock]

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Chris Teague

Chris grew up in, under, and around cars, but took the long way around to becoming an automotive writer. After a career in technology consulting and a trip through business school, Chris began writing about the automotive industry as a way to reconnect with his passion and get behind the wheel of a new car every week. He focuses on taking complex industry stories and making them digestible by any reader. Just don’t expect him to stay away from high-mileage Porsches.

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4 of 26 comments

Jkross22 2 hours ago
You can't use your phone because it's a distraction. Also, here's a 25 inch screen that you need to look at to turn down the fan or switch a song.

2 Reply
- Jalop1991 1 hour ago
  Remember, it's illegal to watch a movie as you pilot the car down the road.
  
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Big Al from Oz 1 hour ago
I don't think the issue of distraction is hard to resolve. First I would force the phone manufacturers to have modules in their phones which enable a limited number functions on the phone to link to the vehicle, ie, telephone/messaging , music. The vehicle should not have a screen, it doesn't require one. Automate headlights, wipers, etc. All of the accessible phone apps can only be controlled from the steering wheel. The steering wheel can only have a limited number of controls with a limited number of functions per control. This will allow for phone calls, voice messaging etc and music. The vehicle owner can then choose what apps are required, ie, Waze, music, etc which can only be controlled from the steering wheel. There is enough going on when driving without all the other distractions of a mobile phone impairing your driving.

Like Reply
- EBFlex 10 minutes ago
  You would “force” phone manufacturers? Why not hold drivers accountable? Crazy concept I know. But what you are proposing is like beer companies having to change because of drunk drivers
  
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