Why You Should Not Trust Your Car’s Automatic Systems Completely

12 February 2026

Paul Francis

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Most modern drivers assume that if a feature is labelled “automatic”, it will take care of itself. Automatic lights. Automatic braking. Automatic lane correction. The car feels intelligent, almost watchful.

Car dashboard at night with blurred city lights in the background. Speedometer glows blue. Display shows 8:39. Moody, urban setting.

But there is a quiet issue that many drivers are unaware of, and it begins with something as simple as headlights.

The automatic headlight problem

In fog, heavy rain or dull grey daylight, many cars will show illuminated front lights but leave the rear of the vehicle dark. From inside the car, everything appears normal. The dashboard is lit. The automatic light symbol is active. You can see light reflecting ahead.

However, what often happens is that the vehicle is running on daytime running lights rather than full dipped headlights. On many cars, daytime running lights only operate at the front. The rear lights remain off unless the dipped headlights are manually switched on.

The system relies on a light sensor that measures brightness, not visibility. Fog does not always make the environment dark enough to trigger full headlights. Heavy motorway spray can reduce visibility dramatically while still registering as daylight. The result is a vehicle that is difficult to see from behind, especially at speed.

Under the Highway Code, drivers must use headlights when visibility is seriously reduced. Automatic systems do not override that responsibility. In poor weather, manual control is often the safer choice. It is a small action that can make a significant difference.

Automatic emergency braking is not foolproof

Automatic Emergency Braking, often referred to as AEB, is one of the most widely praised safety technologies in modern vehicles. It is designed to detect obstacles and apply the brakes if a collision appears imminent.

In controlled testing, it reduces certain types of crashes. But it is not infallible. Cameras and radar can struggle in heavy rain, low sun glare, fog, or when sensors are obstructed by dirt or ice. Some systems have difficulty detecting stationary vehicles at high speed. Others may not recognise pedestrians at certain angles.

It is a safety net, not a guarantee.

Lane assist is not autopilot

Lane keeping systems gently steer the car back into its lane if it detects a drift. On clear motorways with bright road markings, they can work well.

On rural roads, in roadworks, or where markings are faded, they can disengage or behave unpredictably. Drivers may not even realise when the system has switched off. Over time, there is a risk that drivers become less attentive, assuming the vehicle will correct mistakes.

It will not.

Cars drive on a wet highway during sunset. The sky is golden, and trees line the road. The scene is viewed through a windshield.

Adaptive cruise control still requires full attention

Adaptive cruise control maintains speed and distance from the car ahead. It is comfortable on long motorway journeys.

However, it does not anticipate hazards like a human driver. It can brake sharply when another vehicle exits your lane. It may not react appropriately to a fast vehicle cutting in. Most importantly, it does not read the wider context of traffic conditions.

It reduces workload, but it does not remove responsibility.

Blind spot monitoring is not perfect

Blind spot indicators are helpful, especially in heavy traffic. They provide an extra warning when another vehicle is alongside you.

But motorcycles, fast approaching cars, or vehicles at unusual angles can sometimes escape detection. Sensors can also be affected by weather or dirt. A physical shoulder check remains essential.

Cameras distort reality

Reversing cameras and parking sensors have reduced low-speed bumps and scrapes. They are undeniably useful.

Yet cameras distort depth perception, and small or low obstacles can be difficult to judge accurately. Relying entirely on the screen rather than physically checking surroundings is one of the most common causes of minor accidents.

The bigger risk is complacency

There is a growing concern among safety researchers about automation complacency. When systems work well most of the time, drivers begin to relax. Attention drifts. Reaction times lengthen.

Modern vehicles are safer than ever, but the technology is designed to support an attentive driver. It is not designed to replace one.

The word “assist” appears frequently in the naming of these systems for a reason. They assist. They do not assume control.

Automatic lights, braking, steering correction and cruise systems are impressive pieces of engineering. They reduce risk. They improve comfort. But they still require a human driver who understands their limits.

Trusting technology is reasonable. Trusting it completely is not.

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Embracing Tradition: Lessons from the Luddites in a Tech-Driven World

Paul Francis
Apr 15, 2024
5 min read

Updated: Apr 17, 2024

An AI generated Luddite looking at a mobile phone

In the exploration of the Luddite movement, it's crucial to address a common misconception prevalent in our rapidly evolving technological landscape. Many believe that the rise of new innovations, such as artificial intelligence (AI), will swiftly render traditional practices and services obsolete, leaving numerous job roles redundant. However, as we navigate the digital age, it becomes increasingly evident that these age-old practices possess a resilience that defies obsolescence. From the enduring presence of the humble landline telephone to the indispensable role of the trusty postal service, these stalwart pillars of yesteryear stand firm amidst the relentless march of progress.

The United Kingdom, with its rich tapestry of tradition and innovation, provides an ideal setting to delve into this phenomenon. Within the bustling streets of London and the idyllic villages of the countryside, we witness the coexistence of old and new—a testament to the enduring value of heritage in a rapidly changing world.

Embarking on this journey through history, we will unravel the reasons why certain relics of the past persist, despite the technological upheaval and fears of job displacement attributed to automation and AI.

The Luddites: Lessons from History

Amidst the clamour of technological progress, it's worth pausing to reflect on the lessons imparted by the Luddite movement of the early 19th century. The Luddites, a group of textile workers in England, found themselves at odds with the rapid industrialization of their time, particularly the introduction of automated weaving machinery.

Driven by fears of unemployment, declining wages, and the erosion of their craft skills, the Luddites resorted to acts of sabotage and vandalism to protest the encroachment of machinery on their livelihoods. Their resistance, though ultimately quelled by government repression, raises important questions about the human cost of progress and the ethical implications of technological change.

The Luddites' plight serves as a cautionary tale about the need for a nuanced approach to technological innovation. While advancements in automation and machinery have undoubtedly brought about economic prosperity and efficiency, they have also resulted in profound social and economic disruptions. The Luddites' resistance underscores the importance of considering the broader implications of technological change, including its impact on jobs, communities, and individual livelihoods.

In today's world, where discussions about automation, artificial intelligence, and digital disruption abound, the legacy of the Luddites resonates with renewed relevance. It reminds us that technological progress must be accompanied by thoughtful consideration of its social and ethical ramifications. By heeding the lessons of history, we can strive for a future where innovation is balanced with compassion, equity, and respect for human dignity.

AI generated Luddite smashing modern technology.

The Telly: More Than Just Box Sets

Television, affectionately known as the "telly" in British parlance, has been a staple of living rooms across the nation for generations. With the advent of streaming services and on-demand content, pundits were quick to herald the demise of traditional broadcast television. Yet, the telly remains a steadfast companion, offering a curated selection of live events, local news, and timeless classics.

From tuning in to the BBC for the latest updates on the weather to gathering around for the annual Christmas broadcast of the Queen's Speech, television embodies the communal spirit of British culture. While streaming may offer convenience and choice, there's something inherently British about the shared experience of watching "EastEnders" or cheering on England during the World Cup.

Royal Mail: Delivering Connections Across the Nation

In an era dominated by emails and instant messaging, the venerable postal service, affectionately known as Royal Mail in the UK, continues to ply its trade with unwavering diligence. Predictions of its demise in the face of digital communication have proven premature, as letterboxes up and down the country still receive a steady stream of letters, parcels, and postcards.

Royal Mail's enduring relevance lies in its ability to transcend mere logistics and deliver a sense of connection in an increasingly digital world. Whether it's receiving a handwritten letter from a loved one or eagerly awaiting the arrival of a birthday gift, the postal service serves as a tangible link between individuals, communities, and generations.

Printed Books: Tales That Transcend Technology

In an age of e-readers and audiobooks, the allure of printed books endures, weaving a narrative that transcends the digital realm. From the hallowed halls of libraries to the quaint bookshops of Bloomsbury, the tactile experience of turning the pages of a well-loved novel holds a special place in the hearts of bibliophiles across the UK.

Printed books offer more than just words on a page; they are repositories of knowledge, imagination, and culture. Whether it's thumbing through the yellowed pages of a vintage classic or admiring the intricate illustrations of a children's picture book, the printed word continues to captivate readers young and old alike.

Landline Telephones: Ringing True in a Digital World

In an era of smartphones and instant connectivity, the humble landline telephone remains a fixture in British households, steadfastly ringing true in the face of technological upheaval. While mobile devices offer mobility and versatility, landline telephones embody reliability and familiarity, serving as a lifeline in times of need.

From catching up with friends over a cuppa to dialling for emergency services in times of crisis, the landline telephone plays an indispensable role in everyday life. Its distinctive ringtone evokes a sense of nostalgia, harking back to simpler times when conversations flowed freely and connections were made with the press of a button.

Honouring Tradition in a Digital Age

As we reflect on the enduring legacy of these time-honoured institutions, it becomes clear that the old ways are far from obsolete. In a world enamoured with the allure of innovation, it's important to recognise the intrinsic value of tradition and heritage.

From the flickering glow of the telly to the reassuring clatter of the letterbox, these symbols of bygone eras remind us of the enduring power of human connection. In the UK, where tradition and innovation converge, the old ways continue to thrive, enriching our lives with a sense of continuity and belonging.

As we delve into the history of the Luddites, we uncover additional insights into the resilience of tradition amidst technological advancement. Their resistance serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities inherent in navigating the intersection of progress and preservation.

So, the next time you reach for your smartphone or fire up your streaming service, take a moment to appreciate the timeless allure of the past. For in the convergence of old and new lies the true essence of British resilience – a celebration of tradition in a digital age.

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