Activate or deactivate the function using this button in the center display under Assist.
- Illuminated button indicator light – the function is activated.
- Extinguished button indicator light – the function is deactivated
Driver Alert Control
The Driver Alert Control (DAC) function is designed to help alert the driver to erratic behavior, e.g. if the driver is distracted or showing signs of fatigue.
The objective of the function is to detect slowly deteriorating driving behavior and is primarily intended to be used on major roads. The function is not intended for use in city traffic.
DAC is activated when the vehicle’s speed exceeds 65 km/h (40 mph) and remains active as long as speeds are above 60 km/h (37 mph).
Driver Alert Control detects the vehicle’s position in the traffic lane.
A camera monitors the traffic lane’s marker lines and compares the direction of the road with the driver’s movements of the steering wheel.
The vehicle is moving erratically in the lane.
If driving behavior becomes considerably erratic, the driver will be alerted by this symbol in the instrument panel, an audible signal and the message Time for a break Driver Alert. The warning will be repeated after a short time if driving behavior does not improve.
Driver Alert Control must not be used to extend a period of driving. The driver should plan in breaks at regular intervals and make sure they are well rested.
- The function is supplementary driver support intended to facilitate driving and help make it safer – it cannot handle all situations in all traffic, weather and road conditions.
- The driver is advised to read all sections in the Manual about this function to learn of its limitations, which the driver must be aware of before using the function.
- Driver support functions are not a substitute for the driver’s attention and judgment. The driver is always responsible for ensuring the vehicle is driven in a safe manner, at the appropriate speed, with an appropriate distance to other vehicles, and in accordance with current traffic rules and regulations.
An alarm from Driver Alert Control should be taken very seriously since a sleepy driver is often not aware of their own condition.
If the alarm sounds or you feel fatigued:
- Stop the vehicle safely as soon as possible and rest.
Studies have shown that it is just as dangerous to drive while tired as it is to drive under the influence of alcohol or other stimulants.
Driver Alert Control limitations
Driver Alert Control (DAC) functionality may be reduced in certain situations.
In certain situations, the system may provide a warning even if it has not detected a change in driving behavior, e.g.:
- in strong crosswinds
- on grooved road surfaces.
In certain cases, driving behavior might not be affected despite the driver’s fatigue – when using the Pilot Assist function – resulting in the driver not getting a warning from DAC.
It is therefore very important to always stop and take a break at the slightest sign of fatigue, regardless of whether the function has issued a warning or not.
The function uses the vehicle’s camera and/or radar units, which have certain general limitations.