Each year, thousands of people lose their lives to a traffic-related incident. In an effort to reduce these fatal accidents, many automakers are committed to developing safer self-driving car technology.
While self-driving cars won’t completely eliminate traffic-related fatalities, they have the potential to significantly reduce them. In fact, a report from U.S. consulting firm, McKinsey & Company, states that self-driving cars could reduce fatalities by up to 90 percent.
If you sustained an injury or lost a loved one in a car accident that was caused by someone else’s negligent actions, reach out to our experienced auto accident attorneys at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. right away by calling (312) 236-2900.
Human elements, such as distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, and passengers not wearing seatbelts are all common causes of fatal car accidents. Self-driving technologies are being engineered to help address these human elements that lead to dangerous roadways and increase accident risk.
In addition, self-driving cars will likely reduce traffic congestion that is often caused by human drivers. Self-driving cars will be synchronized, communicate with one another, and adjust to the ideal speed rather than creating a backup. Although congestion isn’t as dangerous as distracted or drunk driving, it can still cause severe accidents.
While self-driving cars can reduce fatalities, they will only do so if people begin to adopt and use them. Since they are currently in their early stages, many people may not trust autonomous technology. According to a recent study by the University of Michigan’s Transportation Research Institute, the majority of the drivers surveyed had negative feelings about automated vehicles. They would rather have full control of their vehicles than depend on technology to get them safely to their destination.
Many are looking for proof that this technology is safer than their ability to manually drive a car. Without solid proof that autonomous technology is safer than manual driving, self-driving cars may not have as positive of an impact as anticipated.
While we wait for the day that self-driving cars become the norm, we should make every effort to protect ourselves and others on the road. Simple safety tips, such as making sure every passenger has their seatbelt on, designating a sober driver or using a rideshare service, getting plenty of sleep, and taking frequent breaks on long road trips can all reduce the risk of fatal car accidents.
Until self-driving cars make their debut, car accidents will continue to be a common occurrence. If you’ve been hurt or lost a loved one in a car accident that was the result of someone else’s negligence, you should reach out to our experienced lawyers at Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. today. Our car accident attorneys serve clients throughout the Chicago area, including Aurora, Elgin, Hinsdale, Joliet, Naperville, and Waukegan.
Contact us right away at (312) 236-2900. We can discuss your legal options during a free consultation.
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