Not So Fast! Huge Majority Uncomfortable With Self-Driving Cars

CALIFORNIA — Imagine always have a designated driver — your car.

Or retaining your independence as you age thanks to a self-driving car that can get you safely to your destination.

The self-driving car industry has been experimenting with technology for the past several years but a survey released this week by AAA Northern California shows that 86-percent of drivers would be afraid to ride in an automated vehicle.

But while the vast majority of Americans are not ready to hand over complete control to a computer, many of our cars have safety features that include Advanced Driver Assistance Systems like automatic emergency braking and lane assistance. These are popular upgrades that many car-buyers are willing to purchase.

The same survey that showed just 14 percent of people are ready for fully automated cars also found that 58 percent will add ADAS systems to their next purchase.

"Consumers will likely have at least one type of ADAS in their next vehicle, and in many cases, this will provide their first interaction with advanced vehicle technology," said Matt Alfano, Vice President of Mobility Innovation for AAA Northern California. "This experience will influence driver opinion of future vehicle automation and reinforces the need for automakers to improve vehicle technology by expanding testing and focusing on real-world scenarios."

AAA Northern California has a closed-course test facility and scenario-based testing services to test technology, called a GoMentum Station.

"It’s critical to educate consumers about the benefits of the technology and where there’s room for improvement," Alfano said. "With consumer safety in mind, GoMentum is ready to help vehicle manufacturers improve this available technology while paving the way for the future of all mobility."

AAA Northern California is based in Walnut Creek. The GoMentum Station is in Concord.