Recent AAA survey reveals that drivers fear self-driving cars
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — A survey from AAA revealed that U.S. drivers express uncertainty regarding fully self-driving vehicles, otherwise known as autonomous vehicles (AVs).
The survey conducted in January 2024 from a sample size of 1,010 U.S. drivers revealed that a whopping 66% of drivers say that they are fearful of self-driving cars, 25% said that they are uncertain, and 9% were trusting of AVs.
However, the survey revealed that an interest in semi-autonomous cars including automatic emergency braking and lane assistance were consumer favorites.
Although many drivers are wary of auto-driving cars, they do want to advance the driver assistance systems.
AAA’s survey found that a majority of drivers would like to see reverse automatic braking, automatic emergency braking, or lane keeping assistance in their next vehicle.
This is a graph of an AAA survey of Driver Attitudes Toward Self-Driving Vehicles. (AAA Northeast)
AAA shared that drivers may overestimate the capabilities of automatic braking or assisted driving and that these systems are not a replacement for an engaged and alert driver.
“Consumer skepticism of autonomous vehicles is not surprising, given the recalls and well-publicized incidents that occurred last year,” said Jillian Young, Director of Public Relations for AAA Northeast. “It’s critical that drivers understand both the capabilities and limitations of technology in their cars and how, when, and where to use the systems properly.”
Young further said, “With advancements across so many types of vehicle technology, it’s easy to see how driver misconceptions arise. Uniformity in system naming and performance across the industry can go a long way toward educating drivers.”
The following resources provided by AAA can be used as tools in understanding the future of auto-driving vehicles:
