New driver assistance technology is increasingly making it easier for drivers to let their cars do much of the work in getting from Point A to Point B. That is unless they run into bad weather.
Automatic emergency braking and technology designed to help cars stay in their lanes are less effective in moderate and heavy rain, according to new research from the American Automobile Association. The non-profit group says the results show that testing standards should incorporate performance in poor weather.
“Vehicle safety systems rely on sensors and cameras to see road markings, other cars, pedestrians and roadway obstacles. So naturally, they are more vulnerable to environmental factors like rain,” Greg Brannon, AAA’s director of automotive engineering and industry relations, said in a statement announcing the study results. “The reality is people aren’t always driving around in perfect, sunny weather so we must expand testing and take into consideration things people actually contend with in their day-to-day driving.”
AAA tested cars on a closed track with simulated rainfall. About 17% of test runs at 25 miles per hour resulted in crashes. The share of collisions rose to 33% at 35 miles per hour.
Tests involving cars equipped with lane-keeping technology showed similar results. Those vehicles crossed lane markers 37% of the time under ideal conditions. Lane crosses jumped to 69% when rain was introduced to the tests.
“AAA recognizes these systems have the ability to lessen the chance of a crash and improve the overall safety of driving,” Brannon added. “Fine-tuning their performance and providing drivers with a more consistent experience will go a long way in unlocking their true potential.”
The organization tested four vehicles: a 2020 Buick Enclave Avenir, a 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe, a 2020 Toyota RAV4 and a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan.
How a Denver Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Colorado caused by faulty tech or other factors, you have the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the crash. A Denver car accident lawyer at Levine Law can help you understand your legal rights and options.
The money damages typically available in these cases include compensation for medical bills as well as the financial implications of the accident. In the tragic event that a person dies in a car accident in Colorado, his or her loved ones can seek similar compensation by suing for wrongful death.
Our Denver personal injury attorneys combine decades of experience helping people injured in a wide range of accidents get the money they deserve. We are proud to have a well-established track record of successful results for our clients.
Our lawyers are pleased to serve clients throughout Colorado, including in Denver, Colorado Springs, Ft. Collins and Loveland. Call us at 303-333-8000 or contact us online to speak with a Denver car accident lawyer.
