The world’s leading auto manufacturers are racing to produce the first mass-produced, self-driving vehicles. Uber took a revolutionary step with the introduction of its driverless fleet in 2016, but the trial has been marred with reports of the cars running red lights, driving in bicycle lanes, and breaking other traffic laws.
Although it is unclear when self-driving vehicles will hit the consumer market, it seems only a matter of time until they become widely adopted. It is anticipated that these vehicles could prevent the vast majority of car accidents and, as a result, substantially reduce the number of personal injury claims.
The future impact of driverless vehicles is still a matter of speculation. In the meantime, human errors will continue to be the primary cause of collisions.
If you or a member of your family was injured by a negligent driver, contact the Truman Law Firm P.C. Ronald W. Truman will help you pursue the maximum compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.
Mr. Truman has the highest legal rating offered by Martindale-Hubbell — an AV Preeminent rating (5.0 out of 5.0). Call 435-986-2222 today to schedule a free initial consultation with a personal injury attorney in Utah.
Possible Benefits of the Widespread Adoption of Driverless Vehicles
Reducing the number of personal injury claims is just one benefit of the widespread adoption of self-driving cars. Read on to learn about four other anticipated benefits of these vehicles:
- Fewer Car Accident Fatalities
Forbes estimates that 90 percent of accidents could be prevented by driverless vehicles. In 2015, there were 32,166 fatal collisions, which caused 35,092 deaths. If Forbes’ estimate is correct, self-driving cars could save more than 31,000 lives every year.
- Fewer Visits to Emergency Rooms
Car accidents are a tremendous financial burden not only on victims and their families but also on taxpayers who fund public healthcare facilities. A reduction in the number of collisions will undoubtedly reduce the number of visits to emergency rooms. According to Google, self-driving cars could reduce accident-related expenses by $400 billion.
- Less Traffic Congestion
The technology that powers self-driving vehicles is still under development; however, the software is expected to be efficient at measuring following distance and lane capacity. As a result, driverless vehicles could significantly reduce traffic congestion.
- Improved Fuel Efficiency
Your acceleration patterns have a direct effect on your fuel consumption. Self-driving cars will be programmed to optimize fuel efficiency, which could substantially reduce fuel costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
Unfortunately, it may be several years until driverless vehicles become mainstream. Until then, driver errors will continue to be a primary cause of serious injuries and death in the United States.
If you were hurt or lost a loved one due to a drunk, distracted, or negligent driver, contact the Truman Law Firm P.C. Ronal W. Truman will help you fight for the maximum settlement, and if your case goes to trial, he has the litigation experience to represent your interests in court. Call 435-986-2222 today to schedule a free initial consultation with a car accident attorney in Utah.
