Many drivers in Queensland rely on adaptive cruise control (ACC) to make driving easier and more comfortable.
This technology automatically adjusts your car’s speed to keep a steady distance from the vehicle in front. But new research suggests that this convenience may come with a hidden risk.
A study from the University of the Sunshine Coast found that most ACC systems in popular cars may not meet Queensland’s recommended safe following distance.
The research, published in Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour, looked at 20 major car brands.
It found that only two offered settings that clearly match the state’s guideline of keeping at least a two-second gap between vehicles.
According to Queensland road safety advice, drivers should stay at least two seconds behind the car in front. This gap gives enough time to react if something unexpected happens, such as sudden braking. However, many car manuals do not clearly explain how their ACC systems measure distance. Some use meters instead of time, which can make it confusing for drivers to know if they are following the rule.
The study was led by Michelle Nicolls, who warned that drivers may be placing too much trust in their car’s technology. If the gap set by ACC is too short, drivers could be putting themselves at risk of accidents. In some cases, they might even be breaking the law by following too closely.
The research also highlighted other concerns about how ACC is used. Many car manufacturers recommend turning off the system in poor driving conditions, such as heavy rain, fog, or strong glare. Despite this, earlier studies suggest that more than half of drivers continue to use ACC in these situations.
There are also limitations when driving in heavy traffic. ACC systems are not always designed to handle frequent stopping and starting, which is common in congestion. These situations already carry a higher risk of rear-end collisions, and relying on ACC may not be safe.
The findings serve as a reminder that while technology can support driving, it cannot replace human judgment. ACC can be helpful, but drivers still need to stay alert, understand how their system works, and adjust their driving to match road conditions.
In the end, staying safe on the road still depends on the driver—not just the car.
