Fads come and go, but one that the world seems set on exploring further is self-driving vehicles. For decades, the idea of a self-driving automobile seemed like science fiction. However, the new fad is a reality that is being tested around the United States. In fact, California has moved to allow tests and change regulations on fully self-driving vehicles in 2017, according to CNN. By early 2018, the state could have fully self-driving vehicles on its roads.
Rush to Adopt Self-Driving Vehicles
Although the technology is still being developed, many experts feel like there is a rush to adopt self-driving cars and get them out to the public. In the end, this rush of automated driving could be detrimental to the health and safety of other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
There is no doubt that California’s roads could be the safest in the country if the technology in self-driving cars is 100% perfect. If each automobile had self-driving capabilities, the days of auto accidents could be a thing of the past. With the rush to adopt, though, problems can occur, especially with the technology being so new. According to Vice’s MotherBoard website, California has seen 18 auto accidents since 2016 from self-driving vehicles.
Accidents
One of the most interesting aspects of self-driving vehicles lies in whose fault it is when there is an accident. One consumer safety group wants to hold the automakers producing the cars liable for any accident involving a self-driving vehicle, according to The Detroit News.
Due to the automakers creating the software in the vehicles, making the auto companies liable for an accident is considered the right thing to do by many. If auto companies were held responsible, the amount of compensation each would pay out in personal injury claims could be astronomical. It could put some automakers in serious financial trouble.
There is still plenty of debate needed to clear up the murky waters that surround liability in the case of self-driving vehicle accidents.
Dangers of Self-Driving Automobiles
There are plenty of dangers associated with self-driving automobiles that worry consumer groups and drivers. One danger produced by self-driving vehicles is that passengers gain a false sense of security. Reports indicate that drivers using a semi self-driving vehicle that encounters danger take around 17 seconds to react.
Another danger involves the vehicle’s computer system, which can be hacked by savvy computer users. In late 2016, it was reported that Tesla’s Model S was hacked by a group of Chinese researchers. The hack was completed from 12 miles away and allowed the researchers to control aspects of the car’s performance.
The computer in a self-driving vehicle could also malfunction. A malfunction could take passengers to the wrong destination or misread traffic. Regardless, dangerous accidents could occur.
California could have fully functioning, self-driving vehicles on the state’s roads soon. Accidents and injuries could result in the early years of adopting the technology. If you are injured by a self-driving auto accident, hiring an experienced personal injury attorney is important in getting you the compensation you deserve.
Flahavan Law Offices | Westlake Village Injury Attorneys
If you or a loved one has experienced an injury from an auto accident, contact Flahavan Law Offices. Flahavan Law Offices specializes in personal injury law and can give you advice on the compensation you deserve. Flahavan Law Offices is here to help with all your personal injury law needs.