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A recent study from AAA reveals that pedestrian automatic emergency braking (PAEB) systems have shown significant improvement in performance during nighttime conditions. While these advancements are promising, the research also found inconsistencies in how these systems react to pedestrians wearing high-visibility clothing, a crucial factor for the safety of roadside assistance providers.
Key Highlights
- Nighttime PAEB impact avoidance has improved from 0% in 2019 to 60% in 2025.
- In daylight, systems avoided collisions with pedestrians in high-visibility clothing 95% of the time.
- At night, the performance of PAEB systems with high-visibility clothing varied, ranging from improved avoidance to a complete loss of detection.
- Over 75% of all pedestrian fatalities occur after dark, emphasizing the need for reliable nighttime detection systems.
Recent Study Findings
In partnership with the Automobile Club of Southern California’s Automotive Research Center, AAA evaluated four vehicles equipped with PAEB. The tests found that nighttime collision avoidance capabilities have risen sharply since a similar study in 2019. This progress is a positive step toward reducing pedestrian fatalities, the majority of which happen at night. However, the study stresses that more work is needed to refine these systems for consistent real-world performance.
View full report here.
Impact of High-Visibility Clothing
A key focus of the evaluation was the performance of PAEB systems when a pedestrian target wore an ANSI Class 3 ensemble, the type of high-visibility gear used by roadside workers. During daytime tests, this clothing had no negative effect on system performance.
Under nighttime conditions, the results were mixed. The inconsistency in detection and response to reflective apparel poses ongoing risks to individuals who work near traffic, such as tow truck operators and emergency responders.
Ongoing Safety Concerns
The need for reliable PAEB systems is underscored by traffic safety statistics. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. have risen by over 80% in the last 15 years, with most incidents occurring on urban arterial roads after dark. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated 7,314 pedestrian fatalities in 2023.
Furthermore, roadside assistance providers face significant danger. An average of 23 roadside workers were struck and killed by vehicles each year between 2020 and 2024 while performing their duties.
Recommendations for Safety
AAA advises that PAEB systems are never a substitute for an engaged driver. The organization provides several recommendations for drivers, manufacturers, and regulators.
For drivers, it is essential to drive with extra caution at night and always remain alert, avoiding behaviors like speeding, texting, or driving under the influence. For pedestrians, it is important to use crosswalks, obey signals, and be especially careful after dark, even when wearing reflective clothing.
Manufacturers are encouraged to enhance the reliability of PAEB systems in nighttime conditions and to test their effectiveness with various types of clothing. Regulators and standards organizations should update protocols to include more nighttime scenarios involving high-visibility apparel to better assess system performance.
Study Methodology
Testing was conducted on a closed course at Minter Field Airport in Shafter, California. Four vehicles were selected for the evaluation: the 2024 Honda Accord, 2025 Toyota Camry, 2025 Chevrolet Malibu, and 2025 Tesla Model 3. Each vehicle was tested at a constant speed of 25 mph against a robotic pedestrian target crossing perpendicularly. The tests were run in both day and night conditions with the target dressed in standard clothing and in an ANSI Class 3 high-visibility ensemble.
About AAA
Started in 1902, AAA has grown into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel planning, member discounts, and financial and insurance services to more than 65 million members. To learn more or become a member, visit www.AAA.com.
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