I’ve now retired, and noticed a big change in my driving. I’m “only” 55yo and have always enjoyed sporty vehicles and driving (NOT speeding / having used my cars speed limiter or cruise control nearly all the time).
The change in me I’ve noticed since I no longer have to be somewhere at a particular time (no matter how long my journey takes); I’ve become a LOT more relaxed & considerate of other people (pedestrians & drivers).
I’m very sorry for inconveniencing the younger me (or drivers like me) when trying to be a courteous driver!
In other words I feel I’ve become an old fart over night i.e. driving more defensive, considering the needs (and rights!) of others. For example I will stop and let vulnerable pedestrians cross the road safely by “blocking” the road with my car (especially “dangerous areas”). In 2016 I invested in a vehicle with fairly good semi autonomous driving aids. Not to leave safety to the car, I’m fully aware of the obligation to be in full control of the vehicle at all times. BUT since the far majority of accidents happen when the driver is not paying attention or is fatigued I believe it is an additional safety feature which at the moment needs time of getting used to i.e. she can be too eager to break before navigating around an obstacle.
Taking this into consideration I’ve got use to avoiding this (which keeps me alert / paying attention) and even as a young driver I would not have had the speed / reaction time of the car (in an emergency)!
I believe the technology will get a lot better, improving in future. A machine will not get tired, drive when it’s impaired so I’m hopeful for the future.