Quick Guide
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Understanding Driver Monitoring Systems
A driver's ability to respond safely to changing road and traffic conditions depends upon remaining alert, attentive and appropriately focused on the driving task. Fatigue, distraction or reduced concentration can affect how quickly a driver recognises and responds to a developing situation.
Driver Monitoring Systems are designed to identify signs that the driver's attention or ability to respond to the road may be reduced and, where appropriate, provide a warning or other form of assistance.
Depending on the vehicle and the technology fitted, a system may monitor aspects of the driver's behaviour, vehicle controls or movement of the vehicle. Other systems can monitor the driver more directly, for example by observing head position, direction of view or eye movement.
Driver monitoring technology continues to develop, and systems may combine information from several different sources to help assess aspects of the driver's alertness or attention.
Driver Attention and Fatigue Monitoring
Driver attention and fatigue monitoring systems can use information such as steering inputs, vehicle movement, journey duration and other driving characteristics to identify patterns that may indicate that the driver is becoming tired or less attentive.
If the system identifies behaviour associated with reduced attention or fatigue, it may provide a visual or audible warning and, depending on the vehicle, suggest that the driver takes a break.
Some driver monitoring technologies can assess the driver more directly. Research and emerging systems can use physiological information, including brain activity measured using electroencephalography (EEG), to help identify changes associated with fatigue, vigilance or attention.
The way these systems assess driver behaviour varies between vehicles and manufacturers. A warning should therefore be regarded as an additional indication to the driver rather than a measurement of whether the driver is safe to continue driving.
Camera-Based Driver Monitoring
Some vehicles use a camera-based Driver Monitoring System to observe aspects of the driver's behaviour more directly.
Depending on the system, the camera may monitor factors such as the driver's head position, direction of view or eye movement to identify possible signs of distraction, inattention or fatigue.
The system may then warn the driver if it determines that their attention has been directed away from the road for too long or if other behaviour associated with reduced attention is detected.
The precise information monitored, how it is interpreted and the circumstances in which a warning is provided vary between systems.
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Driver Distraction Monitoring
Driver monitoring can also be used to identify possible distraction. This may include situations where the driver's attention appears to be directed away from the road rather than towards the driving environment.
Depending on the technology fitted, a system may use information such as the driver's direction of view, head position or other monitored behaviour to identify possible distraction. Information from different sensors or vehicle systems may also be combined when determining whether a warning or other form of assistance is appropriate.
Driver monitoring does not prevent distraction and should not be regarded as allowing the driver to divert their attention from the road simply because a monitoring system is fitted.
Understanding the Limitations
Driver Monitoring Systems cannot determine every aspect of a driver's physical condition, concentration or ability to drive safely. Their capabilities depend upon the technology fitted and the information the system is able to monitor.
Camera-based systems may be affected by circumstances in which the driver's face or eyes cannot be observed sufficiently clearly, while other monitoring systems may not identify every instance of fatigue, distraction or reduced attention.
The absence of a warning from a Driver Monitoring System should not be taken to mean that the driver is sufficiently alert or attentive to continue driving safely.
The driver is therefore still responsible for remaining attentive, recognising their own level of fatigue or concentration and ensuring that they are fit to drive.
Driver Monitoring and Vehicle Safety Ratings
Vehicle safety assessments can consider technologies designed to monitor the driver's attention, alertness and behaviour, including systems intended to identify possible fatigue, distraction or reduced attention.
The assessment of Driver Monitoring Systems may consider how effectively the technology identifies changes in the driver's state or behaviour and how appropriately the system responds, for example by providing a warning when reduced attention or fatigue is detected.
The capabilities of individual systems can vary considerably, including the information they monitor, the circumstances in which a warning is provided and the type of warning or assistance available.
The presence of a Driver Monitoring System does not by itself determine a vehicle's overall safety rating. Vehicle safety assessments consider a much wider range of occupant protection, collision avoidance and driver assistance technologies.
You can explore our Euro NCAP safety ratings for cars and vans using the searchable vehicle safety information below.
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Independent Vehicle Information
DriveSmart provides independent information designed to help motorists, self-employed drivers, businesses and fleet operators understand vehicle ownership.
Our searchable vehicle databases combine technical specifications, taxation, running costs, grants and safety information, allowing users to compare vehicles using consistent, structured data.
Whether you are choosing a family car, an electric company car or a commercial van, our aim is to help you understand the facts before making your decision.
Our Vehicle Safety Hub Is Growing
DriveSmart continues to expand its Vehicle Safety Hub with additional guides covering modern vehicle safety technologies, commercial vehicles, electric vehicles and independent safety information.
As new vehicle assessments become available, our searchable databases and supporting guides will continue to develop.
Important Safety Information
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are designed to assist the driver. They do not replace the need for the driver to remain attentive, maintain control of the vehicle and respond appropriately to road, traffic and weather conditions.
The availability, operation and limitations of individual ADAS technologies vary between vehicles, manufacturers and vehicle specifications. Drivers should familiarise themselves with the systems fitted to their vehicle and follow the information and instructions provided by the vehicle manufacturer.
No driver assistance system should be relied upon to prevent a collision or to operate correctly in every situation. The driver is still responsible for the safe operation and control of the vehicle at all times.
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Explore Euro NCAP Safety Ratings