What Does ADAS System Calibration Mean for Insurance Policies ?
When it comes to car insurance, it can be important to ensure that you are properly covered for a host of events and instances. As ADAS systems have become a more common safety installation in cars in the last few years, there are increasing questions surrounding just how calibration and repairs fit into policies. There will be different rules and considerations among not only insurance brands, but also in regulations in different countries. With this in mind, we’re going to have a look at the general insurance guidelines for ADAS system calibration in Europe, current approaches to insurance and everything in between to give drivers an overall idea of what to expect.
What to expect from car insurance when covering ADAS systems ?
When ADAS systems first hit the market, there were no guideline protocols put in place by insurance regulators, as adoption wasn’t widespread enough to warrant specific coverage. As it is suggested that over 90% of cars manufactured since 2018 now have at least 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 these to be covered. The good news is that insurance companies have been increasingly happy to comply, as ADAS systems actually provide benefits for them, just as much as vehicle manufacturers, automotive repair and replacement professionals and drivers.
Need to calibrate your ADAS system ?
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The current EU guidelines suggest that :
Manufacturers’ technical specifications need to be met when recalibrating ADAS features correctly.
Inspection, realignment and calibration requirements are important in any and all 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.
ADAS system issues should be identified, recorded and treated accordingly.
All relevant inspections, calibration activities and realignment should be outlined within the repair procedures.
Confirmation should be provided that states that sensors have been recalibrated and are functioning as per the vehicle manufacturer’s technical specifications.
Alongside the above, 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.
The main aim of driver assistance systems is to make traffic safer. People have limitations and can’t drive a car with full concentration at all times. This is where described systems come in handy.
Need to calibrate your ADAS system ?
Contact your Glassdrive center now !
How does ADAS system calibration benefit insurers ?
ADAS systems are a pivotal aspect of modern car safety and provide a myriad of benefits on all sides. With a decrease in road traffic accidents, insurers are now paying out less on average for bodily injuries, property damage and collision claims. The more intuitive and adaptive ADAS become, and when they are properly calibrated to industry standards, the safer driving environments will be, and this is the aim of these systems when improving road safety for all involved.
Are some issues arising, however, as ADAS repairs such as recalibration are typically requested to be performed as part of vehicle maintenance in a host of 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 to perform either static or dynamic calibration protocols to OEM specifications alongside traditional repairs. It makes the overall process more costly.
Important information about ADAS calibration and insurance policies
Many drivers may not be cognizant of the fact that ADAS calibration is automatically invoiced in instances involving windshield replacement. As an Insured-approved fitting station, Glassdrive's collaboration with Insurance Companies enables predetermined pricing arrangements. Across numerous jurisdictions, calibration is typically encompassed within the glass damage coverage provided by insurance policies, a detail 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 apprised of this practice, its awareness among drivers remains comparatively low.
The first way insurers are addressing concerns is with personalised car/truck insurance plans. One potential solution that may help mechanics, insurers and drivers make the most of ADAS coverage, however, could be 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 be able to curate plans that will better meet industry needs.
When you need to update or select an insurance policy that covers ADAS systems, please do your own research. Be sure to take recommendations from employers if you are a driver by trade or from people you trust when choosing a provider to ensure you get the right coverage at the most worthwhile price.
Driver assistance systems have become commonplace, including those 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. When deviations from the driver’s input are detected, these intervene to maintain stability. Their capabilities often surpass those of even highly skilled drivers. For instance, 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 accomplish maneuvers that may be challenging or impossible for even the most experienced drivers.