Keeping up with change

Poor human-system interaction, such as drivers misunderstanding or misusing automated systems in vehicles, is the biggest mobility safety risk, according to new research.

Engineering innovations including better brakes and improved crash protection have helped to make transport safer for users. But as technology becomes more advanced, the Safety In Motion: Driving trust in modern mobility report asks “whether human understanding has kept pace”.

Just 3% of industry professionals who took part in the research said mechanical failure was the leading cause of mobility safety risks, while almost a third identified human misunderstanding or misuse of driver-assistance or automated systems. A fifth pointed to driver or user behaviour, such as distraction, fatigue or breaking rules.

The report by Economist Enterprise said: “The challenge is no longer just making mobility systems safer. As vehicles take on more functions, is user awareness being eroded and do users really understand the performance limits of these vehicles? What measures should regulators take to avoid a crisis ensuing from this mismatch in safety reality and perception?

“This report determines that the public may be overestimating the safety of mobility automation technologies, while safety institutions are failing to seize a timely opportunity to strengthen safety regulation.”