5-9-22 new vehicle technology

Sophisticated driving assistance systems are now common in newer vehicles, yet new AAA research shows drivers’ confidence and understanding of the technology varies dramatically based on whether drivers received formal instruction or decided to learn as they go.   State AAA spokesman Nick Jarmusz says the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety research found that trial and error learning gets a driver only so far.  Jarmusz says many drivers falsely believe the vehicle’s system will react to stationary objects in their lane, such as construction cones or other obstacles.   Others falsely believe the system will provide steering input to keep the vehicle in its lane.  Jarmusz says never rely on the technology.  Instead, act as if the vehicle does not have it and always be prepared to retake control if needed.