Vehicle safety technology is making remarkable progress, particularly in its ability to detect pedestrians at night, according to the latest research from AAA. The automotive organization’s simulated tests reveal that Pedestrian Automatic Emergency Braking (PAEB) systems can now avoid nighttime collisions an impressive 60% of the time, a dramatic leap from 0% recorded in 2019. However, the study also highlights a potentially concerning paradox: the very high-visibility clothing often worn by roadside assistance providers can, in some instances, hinder the systems’ ability to detect pedestrians in the dark.

The significant improvement in nighttime PAEB performance marks a crucial development in enhancing road safety. With over 75% of pedestrian fatalities occurring after dark, this advancement offers a glimmer of hope in reducing tragic incidents. The statistics underscore the urgency, as in 2023 alone, an estimated 7,314 pedestrians lost their lives and 68,000 were injured, representing a pedestrian death every 72 minutes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

“Technology is improving, but it’s not perfect,” stated Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “Since detection remains inconsistent, especially for roadside workers, drivers should remain alert and not rely on this technology to intervene when lives are on the line.”

To assess the evolution of these systems, AAA conducted closed-course testing using four vehicles. Each vehicle traveled at 25 mph towards an industry-standard adult pedestrian mannequin as it crossed the vehicles’ paths. The study specifically aimed to answer two key questions: has nighttime detection improved since 2019, and does high-visibility clothing influence detection during both day and night?

The mannequin was tested wearing both standard clothing and ANSI Class 3 high-visibility gear, designed to increase visibility in low-light conditions, typical for roadside workers. The results demonstrated a stark contrast in nighttime performance:

Overall Nighttime PAEB Impact Avoidance: Improved from 0% in 2019 to 60% in 2025.
High-Visibility Clothing Impact:
Daytime: Showed no negative effect on PAEB performance, with collisions avoided 95% of the time.
Nighttime: Exhibited inconsistent responses, ranging from improved avoidance to a complete loss of detection.

This inconsistency is particularly worrisome given that an average of 23 roadside assistance providers and tow operators are struck and killed each year. While the PAEB systems have become far more adept at recognizing pedestrians in the dark, the interference from bright, reflective materials introduces a new layer of complexity.

“Even with advanced safety systems, drivers should never assume the technology will catch everything,” Waiters emphasized. “It’s essential that drivers stay alert and ready to stop for pedestrians, especially at night when risks are highest.”

AAA is urging drivers to adopt a proactive approach to road safety, recommending that they:

Remain alert and avoid complete reliance on safety systems.
Exercise increased caution at night, particularly near intersections and crosswalks.
Refrain from dangerous behaviors such as speeding, texting, or driving under the influence.
Familiarize themselves with their vehicle’s safety features by consulting the owner’s manual.

Pedestrians are also encouraged to play their part in preventing accidents by:

Utilizing sidewalks and designated crosswalks.
Ensuring drivers clearly see them before crossing.
Obeying traffic signals and refraining from using phones while walking.
Exercising extra caution at night, even when wearing reflective gear.

Beyond driver and pedestrian responsibilities, AAA is calling on automakers and regulators to redouble their efforts in improving PAEB performance in low-light conditions and ensuring the reliability of these systems across various clothing types. The organization stresses that more realistic testing, especially incorporating nighttime scenarios, is critical to saving lives on the road.

To further protect roadside workers and all individuals on or near the road, AAA reminds drivers to:

Maintain focus and eliminate distractions.
Be vigilant for emergency vehicles and disabled cars.
Slow down and move over safely when encountering these situations.