Technological advancements are generally viewed as a positive in Texas and across the nation. They can enhance safety and make people’s lives easier and more efficient. Still, there are understandable concerns with any new technology. Few stoke trepidation as much as autonomous vehicles, specifically tractor trailers and delivery vehicles.
Testing and preparation for autonomous trucks have been ongoing for several years. Now, the first fully autonomous trucks are about to hit the roadways. Safety and liability are coming to the forefront if there are issues with its rollout. Businesses using these vehicles and people sharing the road with them need to be cognizant of the dangers and what can be done if there is an accident.
Know the facts as autonomous trucks take to the Texas roads
Although autonomous vehicles have been on the road since 2021, there is a major difference going into effect: the person seated in the cab to address issues if they arise will no longer be there. This is significant as the technology must be up to date to work by itself without the protection of a driver in case of a problem.
The company behind the trucks claims that the person’s role was limited and the technology has been sufficiently updated and tested to make the vehicle operator unnecessary. Initially, only one truck will be without a vehicle operator and will haul freight. The objective is to incrementally increase the number of fully autonomous tractor trailers, provided they prove to be safe.
Supporters assert taking the potential for human error out of the equation can make the roads safer. These vehicles can operate at cruising speeds between 65 and 75 mph. They also say that people have been sharing the road and receiving deliveries from autonomous trucks for years without knowing it.
People who are already fearful about the size and speed of tractor trailers now need to think about being beside a vehicle that does not have a driver and is moving at significant speed. Regulations are limited for these vehicles. It is not known how many times the human driver needed to intervene with the truck. Simply accepting the company’s statements as to its safety is questionable.
Companies and people sharing the road should be vigilant
Trucking liability can be complicated, and it is even more difficult to navigate when there is limited oversight for dramatic changes like autonomous tractor trailers. Companies using autonomous vehicles need to be prepared for potential legal claims if there is an accident or other issues occur. Having advice from those experienced in these situations can provide protection and a legal defense.