Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Policy

Many modern vehicles are equipped with advanced driver assistance systems. These technologies have the potential to reduce traffic crashes. Some examples of ADAS technology include collision warnings, collision imminent braking, and driving control assistance. While the level of automation and sophistication in these technologies varies amongst manufacturers, common examples of OEM-branded ADAS include Tesla AutoPilot and Full-Self-Driving, Subaru Eyesight, GM SuperCruise, and Ford BlueCruise. Learn more about advanced driver assistance systems here (NHTSA).

When active, these systems require drivers to remain engaged in the driving task, and Uber defines proper and improper usage of these systems as follows:

Proper Usage

• Staying attentive and alert, with eyes on the road
• Maintaining full control of the vehicle at all times
• Following the rules of the road
• Upholding Uber’s Community Guidelines

Improper Usage

• Engaging in unsafe behaviors while the driver assistance system is engaged, such as distracted driving, using a cell phone, or sleeping behind the wheel
• Failing to keep at least one hand and normally both hands on the wheel while the driver assistance system is engaged
• Physical manipulation of the driver monitoring system intended to avoid detection of driver distraction
• Relying on ADAS to fully perform driving tasks instead of actively engaging in driving

This is not an exhaustive list of improper ADAS usage. Please note that the driver is always responsible for maintaining control of their vehicle and respecting the safety of others inside the vehicle and on the roads at all times. The goal of ADAS technology is to enhance safety beyond the baseline the driver is already providing. It is designed to assist the driver, not to take over their responsibilities.

Additionally, understanding how the technology works is key. Drivers are responsible for reviewing their vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines and manual to learn about the specifics of their vehicle’s systems. For example, most ADAS on consumer vehicles require drivers to keep their hands on the wheel, and in any event, each of them requires a driver to remain alert to the road environment and prepared to take over the wheel at all times.

Uber takes rider reports and concerns seriously. If a rider expresses discomfort regarding a driver's driving behavior, we will thoroughly evaluate the report and take appropriate action as necessary.

Lastly, it is important to recognize that advanced driver assistance systems are fundamentally different from fully autonomous vehicles, which operate without drivers, and should not be confused with them. These technologies are not comparable in scope or capability. To learn more about Uber's Autonomous Vehicle program, please click here.