The most dangerous thing you can do in an autonomous vehicle

A new study has discovered the most dangerous thing to do behind the wheel of an autonomous vehicle. The study, led by Australia’s RMIT University, explored what happens if a driver is suddenly required to take control of an autonomous vehicle. Using a Level 3 autonomous vehicle simulator, the researchers tested participants’ speed and effectiveness in taking over the vehicle in the event of an emergency. “The aim of our work is to enhance ‘human-automation interaction’ for autonomous vehicles and significantly improve the way humans interact with and control these advanced autonomous vehicles, leading to enhanced efficiency and safety in their operation,” said Professor Mohammad Fard. Level 3 autonomous driving technology is already available and certified for use on certain mapped highways in Germany, USA and Japan.