With summer arriving, many car owners have spontaneously formed self-driving fleets to go on trips. However, some loosely organized and informal outings come with numerous potential hazards, prompting tourism professionals to advise car owners to participate with caution.
Recently, the author has seen posts on multiple car enthusiast QQ groups calling for or inviting others to join self-driving tours. Heads of some car clubs revealed that June’s mild weather is especially suitable for self-driving trips.
Though Shenyang resident Xu Han is very interested in self-driving trips, after joining one or two, she started to feel uneasy. “A line of cars driving together looks cool, but it’s hard to maintain proper distances—cars often get left behind, lose their way, or experience minor breakdowns. The competitive overtaking among vehicles also feels quite dangerous.”
Heads of travel agencies pointed out that self-driving tours are not as simple as they seem. First, someone should scout ahead in advance; otherwise, the fleet may run into trouble midway. In addition, many participants lack sufficient driving skills, creating safety risks when driving on highways or national roads. Furthermore, if the organizer fails to manage funds properly, disputes can easily arise.
Regarding the risks and hidden dangers of self-driving travel, Liu Yue, leader of an outdoor sports club, advised first not to casually join activities organized by unfamiliar, unregulated “knockoff” car clubs that don’t require vehicle conditions or consider drivers’ skills. Before setting off, one should fully understand the road conditions, weather, and accommodation options at the destination. Before embarking on a self-driving trip, it’s essential to have the vehicle inspected to ensure it’s in good condition. When joining a self-driving fleet, it’s best to purchase relevant insurance products from insurance companies.
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