Drivers are hesitant about getting behind the wheel of autonomous vehicles. According to a new report from the American Automobile Association (AAA), more than 66 percent of U.S. drivers expressed fear about driving autonomous vehicles, while 25 percent said they were uncertain about fully self-driving vehicles. 

Despite these fears, there is still an interest in semi-autonomous technology such as reverse automatic emergency braking (AEB) and lane-keeping assistance systems. According to experts at AAA, continued advancements in vehicle technology and consistency in performance should help alleviate fears over time. 

“There has been an increase in consumer fear [of self-driving technology] over the past few years,” said Greg Brannon, the director of automotive engineering research for AAA. “Given the numerous and well-publicized incidents involving current vehicle technologies—it’s not surprising that people are apprehensive about their safety.” 

In recent years, several high-profile cases of autonomous vehicles getting into accidents have led many drivers to question the safety of self-driving cars. The AAA’s latest findings show that 65 percent of drivers would want self-driving vehicles to have reverse automatic emergency braking, while 63 percent said they would want automatic emergency braking and 62 percent would expect lane-keeping assistance systems. 

Data shows, however, that reverse automatic emergency braking systems only prevented conditions in 1 out of 40 test runs and 10 out of 20 test runs where there was a child target behind the vehicle. 

AAA stated that the organization believes that to alleviate consumer concerns, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) performance should reflect reasonable and safe scenarios, with a clear understanding of the limitations. 

The organization added that advanced vehicle safety technology should enhance driver awareness rather than give the impression of replacing a vigilant driver. Meanwhile, four out of 10 drivers say they are unsure or think they would be confident buying a car that drives itself while the driver sleeps. 

“AAA looks to collaborate with automakers to establish uniformity in system naming and performance across the industry,” said Bannon. “By working together, we can assist consumers in understanding the technology present in their vehicles and educate them on how, when and where to use such systems properly. This initiative will help instill confidence in the drivers of the cars of tomorrow with greater levels of automated technologies.”