Auto Club: Despite Advancements, Study Uncovers New Challenges For Pedestrian Detection Systems

B-Roll Video: https://vimeo.com/1126885786

AAA evaluated vehicles equipped with pedestrian automatic emergency braking (PAEB) systems, building on findings from a study conducted in 2019. The findings reveal that nighttime PAEB impact avoidance improved from 0% in 2019 to 60% in 2025. The team also investigated whether outfitting the pedestrian target with high-visibility safety clothing designed for workers in hazardous environments, such as on highways or during emergency response, affects the performance of the evaluated PAEB systems. The impact of high-visibility clothing on PAEB systems varied under nighttime conditions, ranging from improved avoidance to a complete loss of detection.

"The progress we've seen in pedestrian automatic emergency braking systems is encouraging, especially as these technologies begin to show improved performance at night," said Doug Shupe, Auto Club Corporate Communications Manager. "However, the inconsistent detection of pedestrians wearing high-visibility clothing highlights the need for continued development and testing. Enhancing these systems is critical to protecting all road users, including our roadside assistance providers who work in high-risk environments."

In partnership with the Automobile Club of Southern California's Automotive Research Center, AAA evaluated four vehicles with PAEB. Testing was conducted on a closed course using a robotic pedestrian adult crossing in front of the test vehicles traveling at 25 mph. Tests were conducted during the day and night with the adult pedestrian "dummy" dressed in both standard, non-reflective clothing and the high-visibility apparel.

Key Findings:

1. Overall, nighttime PAEB impact avoidance improved from 0% in 2019 to 60% in 2025.
2. The special high-visibility clothing had:

• no negative effect on PAEB performance during the daytime, avoiding a collision 95% of the time.
• varied PAEB responses at nighttime, ranging from improved avoidance to complete loss of detection.

Detection and response inconsistency poses ongoing risks to pedestrian safety, given that over 75 percent of pedestrian fatalities occur after dark. Recent findings from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety (FTS) revealed pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. rose by more than 80% in the past 15 years, with this increase occurring on urban arterial roads and after dark.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2023, an estimated 7,314 pedestrians were killed, and more than 68,000 pedestrians were injured nationwide. Additional concerns are raised when you consider AAA's roadside assistance providers and emergency responders wear high-visibility gear while working in high-speed traffic or hazardous environments. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety analysis of data from the Emergency Responder Safety Institute found an average of 23 roadside assistance providers a year, including tow providers, were struck and killed by vehicles while working at the roadside in the years 2020-2024.

AAA recommends drivers always remember:

• Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking (PAEB) systems are never a substitute for an engaged driver. Do not rely on pedestrian detection systems to prevent a crash.

• Drive with extra caution at night, as this is the riskiest time for pedestrians.

• Remember to stay alert! Engaging in risky driving behaviors such as speeding, texting, driving while drowsy or distracted, or driving under the influence of cannabis or alcohol significantly increases the risk of a collision. Follow speed limits, keep your smartphone out of reach, and only drive when sober.

• Read the owner's manual to understand what safety systems the vehicle is equipped with and how they operate.

Drivers are responsible for yielding to pedestrians, but those traveling on foot should also be vigilant. Pedestrians should stay cautious by staying on sidewalks and using crosswalks whenever possible. Always obey traffic signals, look both ways before crossing the street, and refrain from walking and texting or engaging with your phone. Be extra careful at nighttime, even while wearing high-visibility clothing.

Manufacturers should enhance the reliability of PAEB systems during nighttime conditions. Evaluations should also consider the system's effectiveness when pedestrians wear different types of apparel, particularly high-visibility clothing.

Regulators and standards organizations are encouraged to improve pedestrian safety protocols by including more nighttime scenarios involving high-visibility apparel. Expanding evaluation practices will provide a better assessment of PAEB performance and help reduce pedestrian injuries and fatalities.

To protect roadside assistance providers, drivers with disabled vehicles, and others, and to improve highway safety, AAA offers these precautionary tips:

• Remain alert, avoid distractions and focus on the task of driving.

• Keep an eye out for situations where emergency vehicles, tow trucks, utility service vehicles or disabled vehicles are stopped on the side of the road.

• When you see these situations, slow down and, if possible, move one lane over and away from the people and vehicles stopped at the side of the road.

About AAA

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America's largest membership organizations. Today, AAA delivers exceptional roadside assistance, helps travelers plan their dream vacations and adventures, offers exclusive member discounts and benefits, and provides trusted financial and insurance services - all to enhance the life journey of our 65+ million members across North America, including over 58 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA offers or become a member, visit AAA.com.