Autonomous vehicles have been a hot topic in recent years, with discussions revolving around their safety and potential impact on the transportation industry. A recent request for comment on artificial intelligence risks and opportunities by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Advanced Research Projects Agency – Infrastructure has sparked a range of opinions from various stakeholders, including industry associations, universities, state transportation officials, and more.
One of the key points raised by commentators is the potential safety benefits of autonomous vehicles. While self-driving technology has the potential to reduce risks associated with distracted driving, impairment, and fatigue, it is not without its flaws. Many motorists express concerns about sharing the road with driverless cars and trucks, but regulations could address these concerns and help ensure the safe integration of autonomous vehicles into our transportation system.
Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety point out that traffic analyses involving companies like Waymo and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute have shown that autonomous vehicles could potentially reduce fatalities on the road. In fact, autonomous trucks have demonstrated a remarkable safety record, with no fatalities reported in over seven years of operation and millions of miles driven on public roads. However, not everyone is convinced of the safety of autonomous vehicles.
The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) raised concerns about the reliability of autonomous technologies, pointing out real-world situations where automation has failed. OOIDA emphasized the importance of having a human operator present as a fail-safe to the technology, especially in the case of commercial motor vehicles. They also highlighted research showing the vulnerability of autonomous vehicles to cyberattacks, raising questions about their overall safety and reliability.
In response to these concerns, the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA) called on the federal government to prioritize rulemaking and regulatory frameworks for autonomous vehicles. They emphasized the need for clear regulations to ensure the safe operation of autonomous vehicles on public roads. AVIA also highlighted the importance of completing ongoing regulatory processes, such as the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s AV framework, to provide clarity and guidance for industry stakeholders.
The Texas Department of Transportation and the Pacific Northwest Transportation Consortium also weighed in on the discussion, emphasizing the importance of stringent safety standards, predictive maintenance, and addressing liability issues in AI and AV situations. Both organizations stressed the need to build public trust in autonomous technologies and ensure that safety remains a top priority in the development and deployment of autonomous vehicles.
Overall, the debate around the safety of autonomous vehicles continues to evolve, with stakeholders offering a range of perspectives on the risks and opportunities associated with this emerging technology. As the technology advances and regulations are put in place, it will be crucial to address concerns, build public trust, and ensure the safe integration of autonomous vehicles into our transportation system.
