Look, No Hands! Are We Really Ready for Self-Driving Cars?
Technology is like a genie that can’t be put back in a bottle. Technological innovations become more and more advanced.
Progress becomes inevitable to the point where realistically it isn’t possible to go back to a time when things were simple. Or simpler.
All in the name of increased leisure and convenience.
In the 1960s cartoon, The Jetsons, George Jetson commutes to work in an aerocar with a transparent bubble top.
At the time the futuristic prediction of how we may travel felt unbelievable or far fetched. The reality is that self-driving cars are no longer a dream of the far-off future.
But, are we ready for them?
How We Got to the Point of Self-Driving Cars
Most cars now already feature some form of self-driving technology, from cruise control – first developed in the 1950s – to electronic stability introduced in the mid-1990s to recent innovations like automatic braking, lane departure alerts, and self-parking. The latest technologies, like Autopilot from Tesla and Drive Pilot from Mercedes-Benz, automatically steer and adjust speed and brake.
The Society of Automotive Engineers breaks vehicles into automation levels, from zero (no autonomous features) to five (a car that can operate entirely on its own with no human presence.)
Why are autonomous cars even necessary?
Industry predictions believe as we transition to driverless cars, we’ll see a reduction in auto accidents.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 43,000 people died in auto accidents in 2022, and millions more were injured. The NHTSA argues that most crashes are caused by human error, and stronger technology could prevent thousands of accidents. A self-driving car that is never tired, distracted, or impaired could dramatically reduce accidents, saving 30,000 lives or more each year.
There Are Many Concerns About the Safety of Robot Cars
However, there are many concerns about their safety, especially as more owners experience driving and manufacturing issues.
Many self-driving cars have problems that put everyone on the road in danger. Technology is not foolproof, especially when it comes to highly complex sensors and artificial intelligence central to self-driving cars.
We’ve also learned the hard way that automakers deny responsibility or cover up manufacturing defects to protect profits. One report argues that beleaguered auto manufacturer Tesla has been miscounting crashes to make its Autopilot seem safer than it actually is. Another investigation found that Tesla blamed drivers for crashes involving parts it knew were defective.
What This Means for Your Well-Being on the Road
Self-driving technologies and, eventually, fully autonomous cars will likely be a reality sooner rather than later. Consider these tips along the way:
- Do your research: Cars with automated safety technology, such as backup cameras or automatic braking, are already on the road today. Before you purchase a new car, review safety ratings for both the mechanical and computer-driven technologies already on board.
- Stay vigilant: Just as you would if driving a car without automated features, keep your attention on the road. It’s tempting to believe that you can relax your focus once self-driving cars are introduced. Don’t exclusively rely on automated features to keep you safe.
- Support accountability: Laws are currently being written about liability and safety for driverless cars. Support the laws and lawmakers that insist on strict liability for autonomous vehicle manufacturers.
Have Questions? Contact Us Today.
Vehicles equipped with auto-drive are on the roads today in increasing numbers. While some believe autonomous vehicles will reduce the risk of an auto accident, many others have concerns.
If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a self-driving car and wish to discuss the specifics of your case in a free consultation with an experienced Tucson personal injury lawyer, please contact us today.