What Does ADAS System Calibration Mean for Insurance Policies?
Car insurance coverage is crucial to protect against various events and instances. As ADAS systems have become a more common safety feature in vehicles in recent years, questions have arisen about how calibration and repairs fit into policies. Insurance brands and regulations in different countries may have different rules and considerations. Therefore, in this article, we will examine the general insurance guidelines for ADAS system calibration in Europe, current insurance approaches, and everything in between to provide drivers with an overall idea of what to expect.
What to expect from car insurance when covering ADAS systems?
When ADAS systems first became available, insurance regulators did not put guideline protocols in place because adoption was not widespread enough to warrant specific coverage. However, as over 90% of cars manufactured since 2018 have some form of ADAS technology installed as standard and more comprehensive systems are typically offered as aftermarket features, there has been a higher demand for coverage. Insurance companies have been increasingly willing to comply because ADAS systems provide benefits for them, as well as vehicle manufacturers, automotive repair and replacement professionals, and drivers.
The current EU guidelines regarding ADAS systems suggest that:
- Manufacturers' technical specifications must be met when recalibrating ADAS features correctly.
- Inspection, realignment, and calibration requirements are essential in situations where ADAS sensors or their composite parts may affect the operation or functionality of the car.
- ADAS systems must function as they did pre-accident.
- Any ADAS system issues should be identified, recorded, and treated accordingly.
- All relevant inspections, calibration activities, and realignment should be outlined in the repair procedures.
- Confirmation must be provided that states that sensors have been recalibrated and are functioning as per the vehicle manufacturer's technical specifications.
- There should be evidence that an inspection and/or repair has been carried out and why, verification by an experienced professional, and records provided that are both verifiable and can be audited, with a copy received by the registered vehicle owner.
Driver assistance systems primarily aim to improve traffic safety, as human drivers have limitations and cannot maintain full concentration at all times. These systems come in handy by providing an additional layer of awareness to drivers, allowing them to prevent potentially hazardous situations.
How does ADAS system calibration benefit insurers?
ADAS systems are a critical aspect of modern car safety, providing numerous benefits on all sides. They have led to a decrease in road traffic accidents, resulting in insurers paying out less on average for bodily injuries, property damage, and collision claims. The more intuitive and adaptive ADAS systems become, and when they are correctly calibrated to industry standards, the safer driving environments will be, which is the aim of these systems when improving road safety for all involved.
However, some issues are arising as ADAS repairs, such as recalibration, are typically requested to be performed as part of vehicle maintenance in various situations. This is because equipment can easily become misaligned during minor accidents or even during windshield replacement or tire rotations (depending on their installation). This means that auto repair shops will have the additional responsibility of performing either static or dynamic calibration protocols to OEM specifications alongside traditional repairs, making the overall process more costly.
Important information about ADAS calibration and insurance policies
Many drivers may not be aware that ADAS calibration is automatically invoiced in instances involving windshield replacement. As an Insured-approved fitting station, Sekurit Partner collaborates with insurance companies to offer predetermined pricing arrangements. Across numerous jurisdictions, calibration is typically encompassed within the glass damage coverage provided by insurance policies, which is often overlooked by drivers.
It is noteworthy that if calibration is performed outside the context of glass damage, coverage may not be extended. While insurance companies are generally aware of this practice, its awareness among drivers remains relatively low.
One way insurers are addressing concerns is with personalized car/truck insurance plans. A potential solution that may help mechanics, insurers, and drivers make the most of ADAS coverage is to lower premiums and offer rewards when sharing ADAS data. If this becomes widely adopted, drivers will be able to enjoy perks, automotive professionals will be able to take care of repairs to OEM specifications with little fuss, and insurers will be able to gain better driving insights to curate plans that better meet industry needs.
When updating or selecting an insurance policy that covers ADAS systems, it is essential to conduct your own research. Be sure to take recommendations from employers if you are a driver by trade or from people you trust when selecting a provider to ensure you get the right coverage at the most worthwhile price.
Driver assistance systems have become increasingly prevalent, and they include features designed to prevent vehicles from skidding. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ESC (Electronic Stability Control), or TCS (Traction Control System) monitor the car's trajectory on the road. If deviations from the driver's input are detected, these systems intervene to maintain stability. Their capabilities often exceed those of even highly skilled drivers. For example, they can independently apply braking to individual wheels experiencing slippage, effectively correcting the vehicle's trajectory and preventing it from skidding. This ability to intervene at a granular level enables these systems to perform maneuvers that may be challenging or impossible for even the most experienced drivers.