In 2024, an estimated 7,400 people were seriously injured in traffic accidents in the Netherlands, and 675 people lost their lives. These shocking figures painfully illustrate just how vulnerable road users are. Fortunately, technological advancements can make a significant difference: new vehicles are now equipped as standard with a number of driver assistance systems that can help prevent traffic accidents.

Terwijl deze systemen levens kunnen redden, dreigt er wel een ander gevaar: verwarring. In de volksmond, maar ook in de media, wordt er vaak gesproken over ‘zelfrijdende auto’s’ (ADS), terwijl het in werkelijkheid gaat om auto’s met rijhulpsystemen (ADAS). 

Why is this distinction so important?

1. Driver alertness – if drivers believe their car can drive completely independently, their attention decreases. Driver assistance systems (such as Lane Keep Assist or Adaptive Cruise Control) support the driving task, but never take it over. Therefore, the driver remains responsible for correctly performing the driving task at all times.

2. Preventing false security – correct terminology and communication prevents managers from overestimating systems and taking unnecessary risks.

3.      Basis voor toekomstige ontwikkelingen – een duidelijk onderscheid tussen ADAS en ADS maakt de transitie van geassisteerd rijden naar autonoom rijden mogelijk. 

Let's not treat this superficially. Clear language and greater knowledge about driver assistance systems helps everyone: it prevents human suffering and lays the right foundation for the future of autonomous driving.

Call on behalf of the ADAS Alliance

The ADAS Alliance calls on media, manufacturers, policymakers and administrators to remain accurate in their use of terminology:

•       Spreek van ‘rijhulpsystemen’ of ‘ADAS’ wanneer de bestuurder verantwoordelijk is.

• Use 'self-driving cars' or 'ADS' only for vehicles that can drive autonomously and where the driver is not responsible.