Given the current sophistication of these devices, and the potential uses to which they could be put in the future, it seems surprising that so many drivers support their introduction. It may be that we are already resigned to their introduction, as our society is becoming increasingly advanced technologically. Perhaps it is that automation is fair in that it works the same for everyone.

Harmonisation of European road safety policy

As stated earlier, the European Commission has set a target of reducing traffic fatalities by a half, by 2010. To achieve this it will be necessary for all member States, irrespective of their current safety situation, to commit themselves to introduce and co-ordinate safety projects on the national, regional and local level, as well as introducing measures throughout the European Union at a variety of strategic levels. This will involve legislation and enforcement activities to promote better (i.e. safer) driver behaviour as well as introducing more intelligent transport systems and control mechanisms.