Businesses like Tesla and Motional may be enthusiastic about driverless vehicles, but a recent AAA survey reveals that many motorists are considerably more skeptical. Seventy percent of drivers stated they were terrified to operate self-driving vehicles, an increase from the previous year’s figure of 55 percent. The primary reasons for their hesitation were the safety and dependability of the technology.

AAA’s director of automotive research, Greg Brannon, stated in a press statement, “We did not anticipate such a significant fall in trust from prior years.” Considering the number of high-profile accidents due to over-dependence on current car systems, this is partially unexpected.

The percentage of drivers who fear autonomous vehicles decreased from 59 percent in 2020 to 55 percent in 2022 before increasing to 68 percent in early 2023.

According to AAA, additional technological advancements are required before the general public fully embraces the concept. It also highlighted the necessity to clarify the precise function of autonomous cars. According to a AAA survey, one in ten drivers believes there are automobiles on the market that allow them to sleep while driving.

There is no such vehicle, as most automobiles require at least minimal driver vigilance.

According to the trade association, Autopilot, ProPILOT, and Pilot Assist are examples of automotive systems on the market that allude to full automation.

“AAA intends to collaborate with automakers to increase industry-wide uniformity. We can assist consumers to understand the technology in their cars and how, when, and where to use it, which will boost consumer confidence in future automobiles,” according to Brannon.