Parking technology proves most popular car technology according to recent USwitch survey data

According to recent survey data gathered by insurance comparison site USwitch, the most popular automotive technology installed on vehicles are parking sensors, with the second most popular proving to be parking cameras.

Drivers in recent years have been more reliant on parking technology with a rapid increase of manufacturers installing them as standard on vehicles. However, Revive! has also seen a 55% increase in bumper scuffs and panel damage since 2021, suggesting that perhaps drivers have become overly reliant on vehicle technology to help them park and in fact causing more damage because of it.

USwitch’s survey data states that 62% of respondents think they are a useful tech addition, with 57% thinking parking cameras are also useful inclusion in their cars. These beat out the other top contenders of wing mirror defrosters, heated seats and lane departure warning systems.

Whilst Revive!’s increase in sales of bumper and panel repairs should be recognised it is important to note that not all of these will be related to parking incidents. Indeed, Revive! specialise in a range of cosmetic bodywork and alloy wheel repair services providing a valuable service to retail consumers, dealerships, insurance companies, rentals and fleets.

What can be taken from USwitch’s survey results is that a growing number of drivers are increasingly relying on parking technology and ADAS systems to help them drive. While these systems were originally introduced to help drivers, it is possible that drivers have become too reliant on these systems reducing their overall driving skill as a result.

According to BRAKE: The Road Safety Charity, 30,707 people were killed or severely injured on UK roads in 2022, an 8% rise over 2021. These shocking statistics evidence the slow reduction of drivers skill levels as ADAS and parking assistance systems become more prevalent.

“Safety should always be the top priority when selecting car add-ons,” says Leoni Moninska, USwitch Car insurance expert.  “Technological advancements in the automotive industry have increased safety for drivers in different ways. Several features reduce the risk of collision either by alerting the driver of obstructions and potential issues with the vehicle or improving visibility.”

She went on to say that “Tech features that increase connectivity have the potential to cause distractions. For example, social media integration, which one in ten (10%) survey respondents had in their car, could divert the driver’s attention. Distracted driving is one of the main contributors to fatal road accidents in the UK. 44% of road fatalities in 2022 were caused by drivers either failing to look properly or being careless, reckless and in a hurry. When choosing and operating car tech add-ons, ensure you use them responsibly and are not at risk of being distracted while driving.”

Of course, Revive! recommends that no matter the level of ADAS integration in your vehicles please ensure your full attention is on the road at all times, minimising the likelihood of an accident occurring. When parking, Revive! recommends using parking assistance systems solely as a guideline, you must continue to utilise your mirrors and looking in the direction of travel to ensure the safety of you and your vehicle.

If you are interested in our repair services, please get in touch with our team now!

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