Originally published from Bay News 9: New car prices climb as safety technology fuels debate
As vehicle prices continue to rise across the country, safety technology has become a central part of the conversation. From automatic emergency braking to lane-departure warnings and steering assist, today’s vehicles are packed with advanced systems designed to prevent crashes. While these features can improve safety, they also add to the cost of new cars, something many drivers are feeling firsthand.
Recently, this issue was covered in a Spectrum News Tampa Bay report examining how mandatory safety technology is influencing vehicle affordability. Auto Safety Driving School is proud to share that Billy York, longtime defensive driving instructor with our school, was featured in the segment as a trusted voice on the topic.
Billy’s perspective reflects what we teach every day: technology can support safe driving, but it should never replace a well-trained, attentive driver.
Safety Technology Has Value, But It Has Limits
Modern safety systems can reduce certain types of collisions, and when used correctly, they can be helpful tools. However, as Billy pointed out in the interview, technology is not foolproof.
Electronic systems are designed, built, and programmed by people—and people make mistakes. Sensors can fail, software can misread conditions, and drivers who rely too heavily on technology may become less engaged behind the wheel.
This is especially important as new federal regulations move toward requiring features like automatic emergency braking in all new vehicles starting in 2029. While the goal is improved safety, the added cost raises valid concerns for families already struggling with high monthly payments.
Why Driver Training Still Matters More Than Ever
At Auto Safety Driving School, we believe the most important safety system in any vehicle is the driver.
No amount of technology can replace:
- Proper hazard recognition
- Defensive driving techniques
- Real-world decision-making
- Understanding vehicle limits
- Situational awareness
Advanced safety features should assist a trained driver—not compensate for a lack of skill or attention.
Billy’s comments in the Spectrum News report highlight an important truth: safer roads come from better drivers, not just more technology. This is why professional instruction remains critical, even as vehicles become more advanced.
A Trusted Voice in Driver Education
Billy York’s feature on Spectrum News reinforces what our students and families already know—Auto Safety Driving School is deeply rooted in real-world driving experience, not trends or talking points.
Our instructors stay engaged with current transportation issues, evolving vehicle technology, and real-world driving challenges. That’s what allows us to prepare students for today’s roads—not just to pass a test, but to drive safely for life.
As the debate continues around affordability, safety mandates, and technology, Auto Safety Driving School remains focused on what truly reduces crashes: educated, confident, and responsible drivers.
