Partial automation refers to vehicle systems that can control some driving tasks under specific conditions. For example, a car that adjusts its speed based on traffic flow or helps its driver stay in its lane. Although helpful, these features still require the driver’s attention at all times—they are not substitutes for fully autonomous driving.
In the race toward fully autonomous vehicles, many cars on the road today feature partial automation—systems that can handle certain driving tasks like lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking. While these technologies are designed to enhance road safety — they also distract drivers.
[Study] Drivers more likely to be distracted while using partial automation tech
Partial automation, a type of advanced driver assistance system, relies on cameras, sensors, and software to control car speed and maintain lane positioning. Some systems can even change lanes automatically or when prompted. However, drivers must stay alert, continuously monitor the road, and be prepared to take control at any moment, with most systems requiring hands-on steering.
A study on Tesla’s Autopilot found that 14 drivers covered over 12,000 miles, triggering 3,858 attention warnings. The average response was about three seconds, typically through steering corrections to prevent escalation. In contrast, Volvo’s Pilot Assist showed 29 volunteers were distracted 30% of the time—a rate deemed “exceedingly high.”
Is this creating a false sense of security?
The more reliable these systems seem, the more likely drivers are to believe they can relax their focus. It’s human nature to become complacent when things appear to be under control. After all, if your car is staying in its lane and maintaining speed, why wouldn’t you allow yourself a quick glance at your phone or a sip of coffee?
This shift in focus is precisely the problem. According to a recent study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, drivers using partial automation were found to be significantly more likely to engage in distracted behaviors, such as texting or adjusting their dashboard controls, than those in vehicles without these technologies.
Are we over-relying on technology?
While automation can feel like a backup, it’s important to remember that these systems are not foolproof. Partial automation systems are designed to assist drivers, not replace them. Yet, as drivers become more accustomed to the assistance, they tend to assume the system will handle any potential issues.
A Canadian Underwriter study of the distractions most drivers confess to revealed that 72% said they read directions or looked at maps while behind the wheel, and another 67% said they talk on their phones using hands-free tech.
For example, a driver using adaptive cruise control may feel comfortable taking their eyes off the road, trusting that the system will react to slow or stopped traffic. But what happens when the unexpected occurs—such as a sudden lane change by another driver or an unexpected obstacle?
Over-reliance on these technologies dulls a driver’s situational awareness, putting them at greater risk when a system reaches its limits.
How to Stay Safe
Here are a few tips to avoid falling into the trap of distraction when using partially automated systems:
- Stay engaged. Always keep your eyes on the road, even when the system does some of the work.
- Know your vehicle’s limitations. Every system is different. Ensure you understand what your vehicle can and cannot do, and adjust your driving accordingly.
- Limit distractions. Avoid engaging in activities that take your focus off the road, like checking your phone, eating, or adjusting in-car settings.
- Practice “active driving.” Even when using automation, consciously check your surroundings, scan for potential hazards, and be ready to take over immediately.
The technology is far from perfect, and relying on it without understanding its limitations can lead to accidents. The key is to treat these systems as tools to assist driving, rather than take over. Just because your car can help steer and brake doesn’t mean it can replace your judgment or reaction time.
