AMI’s inaugural Motor Report reveals a steady decline in collision-related claims, coinciding with the growing adoption of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Over the past year, AMI received more than 235,000 vehicle claims with collisions accounting for nearly 60% of all claims[1].

AMI’s claims data - sourced from the largest general insurance data pool in New Zealand - shows a steady 7% decrease in collisions each year since 2023, among increasing numbers of policies for vehicles 15 years and newer.

Dean MacGregor, AMI Executive General Manager Hub Services says: “This uptake highlights our customers’ preference for modern vehicles and safety features. Our customers also recognise the benefits of ADAS with over half telling us they use these systems in their vehicles.”

In a recent customer survey, 70% of those with ADAS in their vehicles said the main benefit was improved safety, compared to 55% of those without these systems[2].

“While ADAS can help prevent accidents, our claims data is an important reminder that ADAS is the co-pilot and not the driver. ADAS can’t replace our attention and judgment – and ultimately, it’s our hands on the wheel,” adds Dean.

ADAS reduces driving anxiety

ADAS users reported less driving-related anxiety, with 12% admitting they wouldn’t have the confidence to reverse parallel park without it.

Interestingly, a large number of claims occurred in low-speed areas, with busy city streets and car parks remaining hotspots for collisions.

“For the first time, we’ve mapped out the nation’s top 10 collision hotspots, right down to the exact street location,” says Dean, noting that Auckland dominates the list with Great South Road, Ti Rakau Drive and Great North Road in the top three. Christchurch’s busy Moorhouse Avenue also made the list.

“We’re seeing drivers hit concrete walls, detach wing mirrors by swiping poles or even hitting objects they didn’t see in blind spots.”

Some of the costliest parking mishaps involved gear mix-ups, forgotten handbrakes, and even footwear getting stuck between pedals - sending cars lurching into buildings or rolling into the sea.

“Road safety ultimately comes down to the choices we make behind the wheel. ADAS is making a difference, but drivers must stay alert and aware of their surroundings - checking blind spots, using mirrors and being courteous road users,” says Dean.

Young drivers most at risk of collisions

Millennials and Gen Z show the most interest in ADAS, with 52% of drivers under 40 saying they want ADAS in their next car.

“Millennials have the lowest collision risk, with only 11% of policies resulting in a collision claim. By contrast, Gen Z drivers face the greatest risk, with around 35.6% of their policies involving a collision claim, regardless of fault.”

When comparing collision frequency by generation, the ranking from lowest to highest risk is: Millennials (11%), Gen X (14%), Baby Boomers (14.4%), Silent Generation (16%), and Gen Z (35.5).

“Our data also shows that young people typically drive older vehicles, around 16 – 20 years old, and many of these cars don’t have ADAS. Older models also lack modern safety features that contribute to higher safety ratings,” says Dean.

“Safe driving habits form as we learn to drive, so we’ve partnered with Road Safety Education (RSE) to support the delivery of its nationwide Ryda programme. Ryda equips high school students with the knowledge, skills, and motivation to make safe choices as drivers and passengers.

“Driving remains a deeply human task and we are committed to helping the next generation become responsible and confident road users for life.”