Critics from investigators in the field of accidents slam proposed guidelines for autonomous vehicle operation

In a significant development, the Federal Ministry of Transport has announced plans to approve regulations that will allow self-driving passenger cars and trucks to operate regularly on German roads, moving beyond the current testing phase.

However, concerns about liability in accidents involving self-driving vehicles persist. Siegfried Brockmann, head of accident research for insurers, has expressed his worries about determining liability in such cases. The GDV, the association of insurers, also shares these concerns.

The regulations suggest that liability in accidents involving self-driving vehicles could potentially fall on the programmer of the manufacturer or the provider of digital maps. Yet, the regulations do not adequately address this issue, leaving room for uncertainty.

Despite the advancements in technology, self-driving vehicles are currently limited to traveling at speeds of up to 20 kilometers per hour. There is a suggestion that these vehicles should be limited to commercial operators, given the current state of technology.

Interestingly, the Federal Association of Consumer Organisations has advised against allowing private ownership of self-driving cars, citing the current state of technology as a reason for their stance.

A photo from the dts Nachrichtenagentur accompanies this article, depicting a bustling motorway, serving as a stark reminder of the roads self-driving vehicles are poised to join.

As the rollout of self-driving vehicles continues, resolving the issue of liability remains a critical step towards full integration on German roads.

Critics from investigators in the field of accidents slam proposed guidelines for autonomous vehicle operation