How Safe Are Connected Cars?

Recent years have seen an increase in devices designed to aid the driver, for example, cruise control, self-parking and collision avoidance systems.

Research conducted by the International Data Corporation (IDC), suggests that almost half of drivers in the UK have concerns over cars that use an internet connection to perform these functions.

These fears are based around the possibility that things will go wrong while the device is in use. Fears over breeches in internet security are a key concern, specifically following the take over of a Jeep by hackers, in July 2015. From ten miles away, hackers accessed the Jeep’s systems, before crashing it into a ditch. The hackers were able to turn on the windscreen wiper fluid, cut the breaks, and control the steering of the vehicle, via the software system which provides GPS and allows in-vehicle calls.

Several leading manufacturers have expressed some concerns over the safety of the relationship between their systems and external applications, and recent hacks into the software have lead to vehicle recalls.

The news that a driverless Google car was responsible for a road traffic accident involving a bus last month has led to further concerns. While this is not the first time a Google car has been involved in a crash, it seems that there is more blame being attributed to the self-drive car in this case.

Google said: “We clearly bear some responsibility because if our car hadn’t moved, there wouldn’t have been a collision.” Since the collision, Google has made changes to its self-drive algorithm.

While these incidents affect the public perception of the safety of connected cars, there is much evidence that with further testing to control these weaknesses, connected cars could revolutionise driving safety.

What do you think about the safety of connected cars? Join the conversation on Twitter @WinnSolicitors. 

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