AMA Insider Summer 2016 | Page 27

high-tech, can correct bad driving habits. You are still very much in the driver’s seat and human driving skills remain paramount. “Auto manufacturers building more connectivity into cars can be both a blessing and a curse,” says Heather Mack, director of government relations for the Insurance Bureau of Canada. Emerging technologies could eventually lead to “zero fatality” roads, but she notes that in-car infotainment systems may still cause distraction. “A hands-free system does not equal a risk-free system.” Current Government of Alberta research indicates that driver distractions contribute to 20 to 30 percent of all collisions. Privacy is another issue. The concern lies not in the transition to self-driving cars, but in its ethical implementation. “Consumers need to stay in control of their own data,” Walker says. According to The Connected Car: Who is in the Driver Seat?, a 2015 research project funded by the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada, “the data generated by telematics and vehicle infotainment systems is highly revealing of personal lifestyles, habits and preferences.” Connected vehicles analyze your driving habits, but they may also be spying on you. “The breadth of personal data that can be culled from connected cars is enormous,” says the report. Your car may discover that you have an affinity for Taylor Swift, but it might also learn where you go and whom you bring along for the ride. In a few years, your car just might order that large double-double for you. Regardless of the implications, AMA is here for drivers. “We’ll be advocating for consumers’ in this world of new technologies,” Walker says. All the players, from consumers to manufacturers to insurers, must collectively promote technology that will keep roads safe while also giving drivers full control over their personal information. Clear menus and opt-in features will ensure the driver is still behind the wheel of his personal data—even if his car is doing the driving. HIGHLIGHTS OF SICILY & SOUTHERN ITALY AMA MEMBER EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT: Save $50 14 days from Rome to Palermo | $3,014 per couple on any 2016 Globus, Cosmos or Monograms vacation* Based on Nov 6 & 20, 2016 New! SPLENDORS OF ITALY 7 days roundtrip from Milan | $2,354 ITALIAN TAPESTRY Based on Jun 25, Jul 9, Aug 27 & Sep 17, 2016 Based on Jul 30, Aug 6 & Oct 15, 2016 9 days from Venice to Sorrento | $3,144 Many other Italy vacations and departure dates are available, please inquire. FOR MORE DETAILS, OTHER CURRENT PROMOTIONS OR RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL 1.866.667.4777 OR VISIT AMATravel.ca. Featured rates are per person, land only, based on double occupancy, departure dates as indicated and reflect the $25 per person AMA discount. *Book a 2016 Globus, Cosmos or Monograms vacation and receive $25 off the land as an Exclusive AMA Member. Booking must be made, under deposit and discount applied between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2016 for 2016 travel. Offer valid with other offers including the Journeys Club Repeat Traveller benefit, if applicable. Applies to new 2016 bookings only. Offer reliant on space availability. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply. Centre Tower, 3300 Bloor St. W, Suite 2400, Toronto, ON M8X 2X3, TICO#1893755/50015835. don’t get by SNAGGED THE SMALL PRINT Save the lures for your next fishing trip. Get professional help and a lifetime warranty on new windows and doors today. AMA Members receive 32% off their orders. Call 1.888.729.6629 to set up a FREE in-home estimate today. Formerly known as RAY-O-MAX Learn more at polarwindows.com Copyright Polar Windows 2016. Offer is 32% off Manufacturer’s Suggested List Price. Offer applies to new quotations for AMA Members only and cannot be combined with any other promotion. AMA INSIDER SUMMER 2016 27