ÖAMTC Analysis: Many Assistance Systems Overwhelm Drivers

Driver assistance systems are supposed to make road traffic safer – but in practice, they often lead to mixed reactions. A recent study by the ÖAMTC shows: While many drivers generally trust the systems, malfunctions, feelings of patronization, and complicated operation repeatedly lead to frustration.

High Acceptance, but Many Malfunctions Experienced

In the study, 190 frequent drivers and 38 infrequent drivers were surveyed about their experiences with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). Three-quarters of respondents find the systems trustworthy – but 65 percent of frequent drivers and 45 percent of infrequent drivers also report experiencing malfunctions.

Particularly criticized: the lane-keeping assistant. Many users regularly turn it off because they find the intervention disturbing – for example, when deliberately not signaling. The new intelligent speed assistant ISA, mandatory since July 2024, is also among the less popular systems.

Emergency Braking and Reversing Assistants Appreciated

Better rated are the emergency braking assistant, reversing aid, cruise control, as well as distance and light automation. Over 60 percent of respondents stated that an assistance system had already prevented an accident for them – at the same time, 61 percent of frequent drivers have already experienced dangerous situations because of an assistant.

Fatigue Warning Systems Inconsistently Effective

Even with the fatigue warning system, mandatory since July 2024, it became apparent: The quality strongly depends on the manufacturer. Systems react at different times and with varying clarity – the technical range extends from steering behavior to eyelid movements. The ÖAMTC advises: Warning systems can help, but they do not replace a break.

Support Yes, Patronization No

Key insight: The majority of respondents do not want automated patronization, but targeted support. There was also criticism of inconsistent symbols, confusing menus, and the lack of an option to save personal settings.

In collaboration with ÖAMTC driving technology, assistance systems were tested under real conditions. It became evident: Personalization often takes eight to twelve minutes – impractical for many. Some participants needed help with menu navigation. The insight: Many systems are not intuitively operable.

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