Anybody who is in control of self-driving cars will be called a “user in charge” when they travel on UK roads. They will also not be held criminally responsible for any crash that occurs, according to Government law experts.
They have outlined to Parliament a shift in legal responsibilities when self-driving vehicles hit the streets – potentially this year.
They cover cars where the driver is expected to keep the wheel in emergencies and switch over to self-driving modes.
According to the proposals, a distinction needs to be made between self-driving and driver-assistance modes. (file photo).
According to the Law Commission, this switch may mean that speeding tickets will no longer be issued for “users in control” because they won’t be responsible for accidents caused by their cars.
Other traffic infractions like dangerous driving and running a stop light will not be applicable to them.
Instead of passing to the driver or manufacturer of the vehicle, it will be transferred to them.
The vehicle’s entertainment console will allow users to view films and read on-board during journeys.
They will still need to be in control of the vehicle in an emergency.
However, the ‘users’ in charge will need to pass an exam and have a valid license.
The driver will still have other duties such as insurance, ensuring loads are secured, and ensuring that children use seatbelts. The drink-drive limit will not be exceeded.
These proposals suggest that a distinction be made between driver aid features like the cruise control found in some current vehicles and self-driving modes, where drivers can steer the vehicle.
Motoring groups responded with caution
If a driver of a self driving car is involved in a collision, they will no longer be prosecuted.
Edmund King, President of AA said that although many technologies such as automated lane-keeping or automation can bring safety benefits, drivers should be discouraged from getting behind the wheel until they are properly regulated.
“The Department for Transport already failed to achieve its 2021 goals of having fully-driverless vehicles on roads. However, there’s a Milton Keynes trial that we’ll be watching closely.”
Nicholas Lyes, RAC spokesperson said that motorists shouldn’t be lulled to false security.
“There are big differences between driver assistance features like adaptive cruise control and true self-driving capabilities.”