Use ADAS with caution in bad weather conditions

One in three vehicles equipped with automatic emergency braking collided with a stopped vehicle when tested at 35 mph during simulated rainfall, according to tests conducted by North America motor clubs federation AAA in 4Q21.

Besides automated braking not triggering 33% of the time, test vehicles using lane assist also drifted outside their lanes 69% of the time. As advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are usually assessed in ideal conditions, the AAA evaluations show that moderate to heavy rain can impact system performance. 

“Vehicle safety systems rely on sensors and cameras to see road markings, other cars, pedestrians and roadway obstacles. So naturally, they are more vulnerable to environmental factors like rain,” says AAA director of engineering and industry relations Greg Brannon. 

Fleet managers, these technologies do improve safety in your fleet without a doubt but take the necessary precautions during bad weather conditions.