The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is making historic steps in protecting the human occupants of self-driving cars, according to a March 10 news release.
NHTSA reportedly submitted a final ruling in an amendment to the code of federal regulations that distinguishes cars equipped with self-driving technology or advanced driver-assistance systems, because the vehicles might not contain the same driving equipment necessary for a human-driven car such as a steering wheel and brakes and instead contain automated driving systems.
“As the driver changes from a person to a machine in ADS-equipped vehicles, the need to keep the humans safe remains the same and must be integrated from the beginning,” said Dr. Steven Cliff, NHTSA’s deputy administrator. “With this rule, we ensure that manufacturers put safety first.”
The rule clarifies that "vehicles with ADS technology must continue to provide the same high levels of occupant protection as current passenger vehicles" despite technological advances and innovative designs.
The NHTSA also recently announced an infographic page on its website dedicated to automated vehicle education, including voluntary guidance, technical information and additional resources.
“Through the 2020s, an important part of U.S. Department of Transportation’s safety mission will be to ensure safety standards keep pace with the development of automated driving and driver assistance systems,” said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in the release. “This new rule is an important step, establishing robust safety standards for ADS-equipped vehicles.”
