A vehicle is provided that includes a cruise control deactivation system. The system includes a cruise control system, and a user control that, when activated, commands deactivation of the cruise control system. The system also includes a processor configured to permit or override the commanded deactivation of the cruise control system while the vehicle is moving, based on at least one criterion. Criteria may include whether or not a first sensor detects a foot of a driver of the vehicle on an accelerator pedal of the vehicle, and whether or not a first computation indicates that the deactivation of the cruise control system will cause a collision with a second vehicle located behind the vehicle.