Self-Driving Vehicles: Can Legal and Regulatory Change Keep Up With New Technology?

Authors

  • Alan Douglas Eastman Indiana University of Pennsylvania

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11634/216796061706763

Keywords:

self-driving vehicles, regulation, liability, licensing, insurance

Abstract

Automotive travel in the United States will change dramatically in the next decades as technological advances shift more driver functions to computers, cameras, and sensors.  Fully self-driving automation may be distant, but rapidly approaching is limited self-driving automation, which involves giving automation control of all safety-critical functions under certain traffic or environmental conditions, with the expectation that human drivers will resume control as needed.  Emphasis has been placed on the technological changes and capabilities, and their attendant benefits, rather than on driver capabilities and necessary driver training.  To secure the benefits of automation, driver training is essential.  Anecdotal evidence suggests that drivers don’t understand existing technologies, let alone emerging technology required for autonomous vehicle operation.  State legislative activity regarding autonomous vehicles is just beginning, but accelerating.  Now is the time to develop uniform standards and frameworks for manufacturers and drivers to ensure an effective and efficient transition to autonomous vehicles.

Author Biography

Alan Douglas Eastman, Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Professor of FinanceDepartment of Finance and Legal Studies

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Published

04/25/2016

How to Cite

Eastman, A. D. (2016). Self-Driving Vehicles: Can Legal and Regulatory Change Keep Up With New Technology?. American Journal of Business and Management, 5(2), 53–56. https://doi.org/10.11634/216796061706763

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Section

Articles