Realising the Potential of Driverless Vehicles

By almost universal consensus, driverless vehicles are coming and represent as big a disruption to the transport sector as the replacement of horses with the automobile over 100 years ago. The anticipated benefits are huge. Many hope that driverless vehicles will eliminate traffic accidents, end congestion, spark economic growth and provide cheap and convenient mobility for all. But countries that want to fully realise these benefits - and avoid the pitfalls - will need to ensure their legal houses are in order. This report explains the history and likely near future of driverless technology, analyses the issues and provides a suggested blueprint for the immediate reforms that are required. All of the key legal issues are covered, including: -inherent legality -ensuring safety -civil liability for personal injury and property damage -criminal liability -regulation of testing -cybersecurity -mandated connectivity -radio spectrum use -urban planning -use of special lanes -privacy -parking -ethics