Self-driving cars were once only thought of in science fiction, and now they are our new reality. While some consumers welcome their arrival, others remain hesitant about their safety. Everything in theory about a self-driving car seems revolutionary to today’s motorists – but can they be trusted? One thing is for certain- self-driving cars are here to stay. Recent self-driving car accident statistics may help provide helpful insight into how we can help gauge their reliability as safe automobiles.
Statistics Show the Vast Majority of Americans are Afraid to Ride in Fully Self-Driving Cars
Recent statistics from AAA reveal that 71% of American drivers say they are afraid of riding in fully self-driving vehicles. The public’s lack of trust may come from people’s fear of unfamiliar and new technology. If self-driving vehicles continue to become more mainstream, then the public’s trust in them might improve.
There are different levels of self-driving capabilities in cars. In Level 0 through Level 2, the driver is still in control of the car; however, the car’s automation system offers some support. At Levels 3-5, the vehicle is driving itself. However, at any level, it is important to have a driver be alert and ready to take control if they need to correct the car’s orientation. The point of self-driving cars is not to have a driver sleeping at the wheel.
People are generally more trusting of semi-self-driving cars. People especially favor short trips rather than longer ones or trips with fully autonomous vehicles. Most Americans are too skeptical of the idea of fully automated self-driving cars right now. It will be interesting to see how self-driving car statistics change once autonomous cars become more available.
Current Statistics On the Number of Self-Driving Car Accidents
In 2022, automakers in the U.S. reported nearly 400 crashes of vehicles with partially automated driver-assist systems, of which 273 crashes involved Teslas that were using the model’s Autopilot “Full Self-Driving” systems. The statistical information was collected for a period of just under 11 months.
Right now, there is nothing to suggest that self-driving cars are more susceptible to accidents, especially given the fact that most self-driving car crashes are caused by human error and not an automated software system. However, as the self-driving car market grows, we will be aware of new information to see how the technology performs in the real world.
Currently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has enacted a standing general order that requires all car manufacturers and operators to report self-driving car accidents to the NHTSA when any Level 2 or higher autonomy car is involved. Therefore, the public will be privy to new statistics regarding self-driving crashes as they are collected and announced.
Liability for Self-Driving Car Accidents
Who is at fault in an automated motor vehicle accident? The answer depends on the circumstances of the case. If you have been involved in a self-driving car accident, it is always recommended to speak with an attorney to discuss your legal options. The car accident attorneys at 1-800-injured advise that a self-driving accident victim may be eligible for significant financial compensation. 1-800-Injured is an attorney and medical referral service. Reach out today if you want to learn more information.
