Collision Avoidance Features: Initial Results

Analysis examined how individual collision avoidance features affected losses under a variety of insurance coverages for vehicle damage and injuries. Five automakers supplied identification numbers of vehicles that had each feature, allowing a comparison of the insurance records for those vehicles that included the optional feature with the same models without the feature. Coverage and loss data were supplied by insurers representing over 80 percent of the U.S. private passenger vehicle insurance market. Regression analysis was used to quantify the effect of each vehicle feature while controlling for the other features and covariates, including driver age and gender, garaging state, and collision deductible. Claim frequency was modeled using a Poisson distribution. Claim severity was modeled using a Gamma distribution. Estimates for overall losses were derived from the frequency and severity models. Forward collision avoidance systems, particularly those that can brake autonomously, along with adaptive headlights, showed the biggest claim reductions. Other systems, such as blind spot detection and park assist, did not show consistent effects on crash patterns across different manufacturers. Lane departure warning systems were associated with increased claim rates; however, the 95% confidence intervals were large, indicating the results are uncertain. Forward collision avoidance systems with autonomous braking showed 10-14 percent reductions in the frequency of claims to repair damage that the studied vehicles caused to other vehicles; adaptive headlights showed reductions of as much as 10 percent in the same types of claims. Consistent with this finding, injury liability claims also were reduced. Both systems were associated with more modest reductions in the frequency of claims to repair studied vehicles. Forward collision avoidance systems without autonomous braking also reduced claims for damage and injuries but to a lesser extent. In conclusion, insurance data show that some collision avoidance technologies are preventing crashes and injuries.

Language

  • English

Media Info

  • Media Type: Web
  • Features: References; Tables;
  • Pagination: 8p
  • Monograph Title: 23rd International Technical Conference on the Enhanced Safety of Vehicles (ESV): Research Collaboration to Benefit Safety of All Road Users

Subject/Index Terms

Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 01569320
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Report/Paper Numbers: 13-0126
  • Files: TRIS, ATRI, USDOT
  • Created Date: Jul 9 2015 1:04PM