Has modern technology made our roadways safer?

A majority of Americans surveyed on the use of technology by automobile drivers feel technological innovations have failed to make people safer drivers. In a survey conducted by MetLife Auto & Home, 85 percent believe cars are safer today, but just 29 percent think technology innovations have translated into making people safer drivers, and 63 percent of those surveyed believe drivers rely too heavily on technology features to operate their vehicles.

The survey suggests drivers are not making wise decisions when it comes to evaluating the importance of different technology features, with many favoring increased convenience over driver and passenger safety.

"Auto manufacturers have made significant strides with regard to safety innovations over the past 10 years, but the ultimate safety feature is an alert and prepared driver," says Bill Moore, president of MetLife Auto & Home. "Technology advancements have greatly improved the comfort and safety of cars, but overreliance on these features can be dangerous. Drivers need to remember that it's still up to them to operate their vehicles in a safe and responsible manner."

The results of the survey suggest the respondents have a greater familiarity with convenience-oriented driving features over those devoted to car safety.

• 90 percent of respondents were either very or somewhat familiar with GPS devices, which can make it easier to find your destination, but can take your attention off the road.

• 77 percent of respondents were either very or somewhat familiar with Bluetooth-style accessories, which can make taking calls in your car easier, but the conversation can still be just as distracting.

• 27 percent of respondents even indicated they were very or somewhat familiar with in-car social networking, only recently released in certain car models—a number that increased to 40 percent among younger Americans (aged 18-34).

When surveyed about their familiarity with safety-oriented features, fewer than half reported they were very or somewhat familiar with various technologies.

• 42 percent of respondents were very or somewhat familiar with electronic stability control, one of the most significant safety advancements in recent years, which helps improve steering and prevents rollover accidents. 31 percent had never heard of it at all.

• 44 percent were very or somewhat familiar with brake assist, which applies additional brake force in the event of sudden stops.

• 43 percent were very or somewhat familiar with forward collision warning, which alerts the driver when sensors detect an imminent front-end impact.

• 28 percent were very or somewhat familiar with the lane departure warning feature, which warns a driver that he or she is drifting out of the designated lane on a highway. 41 percent of respondents had never even heard of the feature.

Special Reports /

MetLife Survey Focuses on Drivers, Technology

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