5 important things to know about self-driving cars
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Once upon a time, self-driving cars were mentioned in sci-fi novels or movies, but now they have become a reality. Find out what you need to know about the cars of the future so you'll be ready when and if they hit the streets in greater numbers.
The future is here
Several manufacturers already have prototype vehicles that are being tested. Google, Audi, BMW, Volvo, Nissan, Toyota, Honda and Tesla are working on mass production of self-driving cars. Google's version has already taken the roads of California to determine what works and what needs to be changed to ensure maximum reliability and safety.
How does it work?
Self-driving cars rely on a variety of cameras, lasers, and built-in sensors to track the road, surroundings, and other vehicles. These inputs are constantly monitored by the computer, allowing the vehicle to make adjustments as necessary to other driving and road conditions.
Manual modes included
Most of the automakers involved in the development of these vehicles include a manual mode that will allow a person to take control of the vehicle or just sit back and be the passenger. It is believed that this will be the only real option for automakers if they want lawmakers to support putting cars on the road.
Liability for an accident
The main problem with self-driving cars is how liability works in the event of an accident on the road. At this point, everyone agrees that if the car is in manual mode, the driver will be liable if he or she is found at fault. If the vehicle is in autonomous driving mode and causes an accident or malfunction, the automaker takes responsibility.
The technology is already in use
While autonomous cars may seem like something that can't happen anytime soon, it's important to understand that similar forms of technology are already in use. Parking assistant, adaptive cruise control, and other similar features found in newer cars use aspects of the self-driving car. Each of these systems takes on an aspect of driving when activated, showing that drivers are already learning to trust their vehicles to keep them safe.
