PennDOT is requesting feedback on draft regulations for autonomous vehicles

Self-driving vehicles have been a hot topic in the transportation industry for several years now, with many states working to establish guidelines and regulations for their safe operation on public roads. Pennsylvania, in particular, has been at the forefront of this movement, thanks in part to the early technology development and testing that took place in the Pittsburgh area. Now, the state is taking another step forward with new proposed guidelines that would allow self-driving vehicles to operate without an emergency driver in the vehicle, as long as certain specifications are met.

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation recently released an 11-page draft of guidelines prepared by the state’s Highly Automated Vehicle Advisory Committee. These guidelines are a follow-up to the state Legislature approving Act 130 in 2022, which governs the use of self-driving vehicles. The committee has been working on these guidelines since 2018, when the push for self-driving vehicles began in the state. The goal is to provide a formal set of operating rules for developers and ensure the safe operation of self-driving vehicles on Pennsylvania roads.

One of the key differences in the proposed guidelines is the allowance for self-driving vehicles to operate without a safety driver in the vehicle. This is a significant step forward in the development of autonomous vehicle technology, as it demonstrates a level of trust in the capabilities of these vehicles. However, the guidelines also require that self-driving vehicles be clearly marked so that other drivers and emergency responders are aware that there is no one in the vehicle responsible for controlling it.

In addition to the lack of a safety driver requirement, the guidelines also mandate that developers collect and report extensive data about the time self-driving vehicles spend on the road without a driver. This data will be crucial for monitoring the performance and safety of these vehicles and ensuring that any accidents or emergency situations are reported immediately. Developers who fail to comply with these guidelines risk having their operating certificates revoked.

While Pennsylvania has been a leader in developing operating technology and guidelines for self-driving vehicles, other states such as Arizona, Nevada, and Texas have already allowed self-driving vehicles to operate without drivers on their roads. These states have certain advantages, such as long stretches of straight, flat roads and a warm climate year-round, which make them ideal for testing autonomous vehicles. Pennsylvania, with its hills, curves, and winter weather, has had to learn from the experiences of these states and adapt its guidelines accordingly.

Overall, the new proposed guidelines for self-driving vehicles in Pennsylvania represent a significant step forward in the development and regulation of autonomous vehicle technology. By allowing these vehicles to operate without a safety driver under certain conditions, the state is demonstrating its commitment to embracing new technology and innovation in the transportation industry. With these guidelines in place, Pennsylvania is poised to expand the use of self-driving vehicles and pave the way for a future where autonomous vehicles are a common sight on the roads.