The moderating influence of life events on the acceptance of advanced driver assistance systems in aging societies

Life events in the context of the different life courses of individuals can influence behavior in the acceptance of technology. In this context, driver assistance systems have the potential to create the basis for future mobility solutions. However, the systems should be accepted by the older generation, which can provide them with mobility into old age. Therefore, a literature review was conducted and life events were identified that may moderate the effect relationships in the acceptance of driver assistance systems. Based on the technology acceptance model, a research model was developed and validated by a study (n = 181). The results show that there are differences in the acceptance of driver assistance systems depending on different life events. The results show that the four life events "major illness," "retirement," birth of a grandchild, and "major accident" have a moderating influence on the acceptance of driver assistance systems. The study finds that regardless of the life event experienced, trust in technology is a major factor in acceptance, along with perceived usefulness. For example, retired individuals and those with major illnesses focus on the ease of use of the systems, while individuals with grandchildren value the opinion of their close environment.