[arprocter]

I've always thought drivers of automatic transmissions seem less aware of what is happening around them, because they don't have to pay as much attention.

Since joining the 3 pedal master race, going back to an auto definitely doesn't engage me as much as manual.

[Tiksi]

I remember seeing this a while back: http://www.columnfivemedia.com/work-items/infographic-stick-...

It's a MINI ad but still interesting.

I have a gut feeling that people who drive manual cars are less likely to get in an accident simply because you kinda have to pay more attention, its harder to text and drive, etc. Also, in the US it seems like generally the only people that drive manual these days are people that enjoy driving and take it more seriously so I would expect less accidents due to that as well. I don't have any data to back any of that up so take it as you will.

Still, even the best driver isn't gonna react as fast.

[tshannon]

I think regardless of the car, you can't count on humans to always be paying attention.

[arprocter]

This is true.

I guess it's a trade off - the more the car does for you the less you have to think about what you're doing, but then again I see people driving in the dark without their lights on all the time.