What Is an Advanced Driver-Assistance System (ADAS)?

By the Mercury Team

Shopping for a new car? You’ve probably seen models with Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), which have features like automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot detection. But what do they really do?

ADAS are smart safety systems that help drivers avoid accidents by detecting hazards, providing alerts, and even taking action when needed. For insurers, ADAS-equipped vehicles mean fewer accidents and lower claims, which could lead to lower car insurance costs for drivers.

In this article, we’ll explain how these systems work, their benefits, and how they might even save you money in the long run.

How ADAS Work

At their core, ADAS rely on three main components: sensors, onboard computers, and actuators. Let’s break down how these parts work together:

1. Sensors (e.g., radar, cameras, and ultrasonic detectors, etc.) constantly scan the vehicle’s surroundings, spotting obstacles, lane markings, and nearby cars.
2. This information is then processed by onboard computers, which analyze the data in real time to detect potential hazards.
3. If needed, the system can activate actuators, which step in to assist with braking, steering, or throttle adjustments.
4. ADAS provide helpful alerts—like beeps, dashboard warnings, or gentle vibrations—to let you know when something needs your attention.

ADAS are a great extra set of eyes on the road. But at the end of the day, you’re still the one in the driver’s seat. Think of it as a helpful co-pilot rather than an autopilot. Staying focused and responding to alerts when needed can go a long way in preventing accidents and making you a safer driver, which could lead to lower insurance costs!

Examples of ADAS

Different ADAS come with various features designed to make driving safer and more convenient. Here are some of the most common systems and how they help reduce different types of car accidents.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Ever wish your car could adjust its speed automatically in traffic? That’s exactly what adaptive cruise control (ACC) does. It keeps a safe distance from the car ahead by slowing down or speeding up as needed—without you constantly hitting the gas or brakes. This makes highway driving much smoother and helps cut down on rear-end collisions since you’re always following at a safe distance.

Lane Departure Warning & Lane Keeping Assist

We’ve all had those moments where we drift out of our lane without realizing it. Lane departure warning (LDW) gives you a heads-up if you start to stray, usually with a beep or a small steering wheel vibration. Lane keeping assist (LKA) takes it a step further by gently steering you back into place. These features help prevent side-swipe accidents and keep you safely in your lane, especially on long drives when fatigue can set in.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

Sometimes, traffic stops suddenly, and you only have a split-second to react. That’s where automatic emergency braking (AEB) comes in. If it detects that a crash is about to happen, it can hit the brakes for you—even if you don’t react in time. This can make a huge difference in avoiding or reducing the impact of a front-end collision, helping keep you and your car safer.

Blind Spot Detection (BSD)

Changing lanes can be tricky, especially when another car is lurking in your blind spot. Blind spot detection (BSD) uses sensors to monitor those hard-to-see areas and alerts you—usually with a light on your side mirror or a warning sound—if there’s a vehicle there. This extra awareness makes switching lanes much safer and helps avoid those last-second swerves.

Other ADAS Features

ADAS include even more features to make driving easier and safer:

• Parking assist: This feature helps guide you into tight spaces with minimal effort.
• Driver drowsiness detection: This feature monitors your behavior and suggests a break if it senses fatigue.
• Traffic sign recognition: This feature reads road signs and displays important information on your dashboard.

Benefits of ADAS

To some, ADAS may seem like frivolous tech, but it’s anything but that. Let’s take a look at some of the key benefits of ADAS:

Enhanced Safety

The biggest advantage of ADAS? Fewer accidents. ADAS greatly reduce the risk of crashes and injuries by helping drivers avoid collisions, stay in their lanes, and react faster to sudden stops. In fact, a comprehensive study by the Partnership for Analytics Research in Traffic Safety (PARTS) found that cars with AEB showed a 49% reduction in front-to-rear crashes.

Improved Driving Record

No one likes getting a ticket, and ADAS can help you keep your driving record clean. Features like speed warnings, lane-keeping assistance, and blind spot detection make it easier to avoid traffic violations and accidents. A good driving history can also lead to lower insurance costs over time. Many insurers reward drivers with clean records by offering better rates and auto insurance discounts, so staying safe on the road can pay off in more ways than one.

Greater Peace of Mind

Driving can be stressful, especially in heavy traffic or unfamiliar areas. ADAS take some of the pressure off by helping with tasks like braking, steering, and monitoring blind spots. This means less fatigue, fewer surprises, and a more relaxed driving experience.

Ask the Expert

Q: Will ADAS-equipped cars be more expensive to insure?

A: “It depends. On one hand, ADAS can help prevent accidents, which is a big plus for both drivers and insurance companies. But on the flip side, if you get into a fender bender, fixing those high-tech sensors and cameras can be pricey. Some insurance companies might offer discounts for ADAS-equipped cars, while others factor in the higher repair costs. Your best bet is to shop around and ask your insurer how ADAS affects your specific policy.”

- Kevin Quinn, VP, Auto Claims

Conclusion

With features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot detection, ADAS help prevent accidents and keep you safer on the road. And the best part? Many insurance companies, including Mercury, recognize the added safety of ADAS-equipped vehicles, which means potential savings on insurance rates and better coverage options for you.

If you’re looking for cheap car insurance, Mercury offers affordable protection without compromising quality.

Contact us today for a fast, free quote!