Millions of drivers could be missing out on the benefits of potentially lifesaving in-vehicle assistance aids, with new research revealing that a third (33%) of drivers never use them.

The findings, published by road safety charity IAM RoadSmart as part of its 2024 Road Safety Report, are based on a survey of 2,008 drivers. Among six key driver assistance technologies – including collision warnings, cruise control, and speed alerts – only 25% of respondents said they regularly or often use the systems available in their vehicle. One-in-five (19%) said they rarely use them or have tried them only once.

Speed warnings were the most frequently used feature, with 28% regularly relying on them, followed closely by cruise control at 27%. However, cruise control also topped the list of unused features, with 34% saying they never use it. Just 23% said they regularly use collision warning assistance, while 25% said their car does not have the feature.

Usage also varies by demographic. Drivers aged 17–34 were roughly twice as likely to use the technology compared to those aged 70 or older. Men and those covering 10,000 miles or more annually were also more likely to engage with these systems.

Driver assistance technology has become widespread in new vehicles, with systems such as lane departure warnings, emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control now commonplace. Yet many drivers continue to ignore them, potentially undermining the technology’s road safety benefits.

Nicholas Lyes, IAM RoadSmart’s director of policy and standards, said: “It’s ironic that so many rely on technology on a day-to-day basis, yet within their vehicles, drivers at best seem ambivalent about using technology systems that could save their lives if these were engaged.

“Part of the issue is likely to be a lack of understanding of how each of these systems can benefit them. Many might switch off certain systems because the alarm might be irritating or because they don’t like the feel of the steering wheel autocorrecting to keep the vehicle in a lane.

“Manufacturers are consistently improving the technology, but this will take time. There’s potentially an exercise for both individuals and fleet managers to ensure drivers and colleagues learn more about these systems, as well as advisories being added into the next round of Highway Code changes.”

Lyes added: “While we need more consumer awareness of how these aids work, it’s important to remember that driver assistance systems should always compliment safe driving rather than be a replacement for it.”

IAM RoadSmart offers a free online ADAS guide and Vehicle Familiarisation courses to help both individual drivers and fleet operators better understand and engage with in-vehicle safety technology.