PinThe introduction of self-driving cars opens up so many possibilities. One of the most exciting opportunities is the availability of safer transportation. However, is the self-driving car the answer to preventing drunk driving? At this point, there are more questions than answers. Who is excited about the forward movement of putting self-driving cars on the roads? Why others have concerns with DUI incidents and the self-driving car. Where does the driver’s responsibility stop?Preventable Accidents
The majority of fatal vehicle accidents come down to a few basic causes, which are all related to the human condition.
- Distracted driving
- Impaired, drowsy, or drunk driving
- Failure to wear a seatbelt
- Speeding
What is a self-driving Car?
The self-driving car has different names, such as the autonomous vehicle, robotic car, or driverless car. All of these cars have a commonality which makes them distinctive. The self-driving cars are dependent on software technology and programming to operate. Many people are excited at the prospect of sitting back to allow the vehicle to deal with heavy traffic commutes to work, take a nap on a trip home, or have a few drinks without worrying about safety. At present, the kinks in the programming of the self-driving cars are quickly addressing the hazards of anticipating the many types of road situations.
Exciting Anticipation by MADD
The leading advocate of anti-drunk driving, MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Drivers) is optimistically awaiting the point when self-driving technology prevents drinkers from operating a vehicle while under the influence. MADD considers the self-driving car as one of the most promising technologies for reducing and possibly preventing drunk driving.
Self-driving is Still Driving
Presently, the most important thing to remember about self-driving cars is the driver is still the one operating the self-driving car. It takes the driver to start, set, and manage the system commands of a self-driving car. The driver must program a destination and route, as well as, launch the operating system. The driver, whether impaired or not, the responsible driver of the self-driving car.
As self-driving cars become available to the general public, the operator of the vehicle system is considered the licensed driver. When the program of the self-driving car malfunctions it is the fault of the driver, manufacturer of the car, or designer of the software? It seems as technology advances the laws and rules of engagement are always playing catch up. The important thing to remember is you are still the driver even when in a self-driving car.
Self-driving Cars Expected to Impact Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol consumption is projected to increase with the introduction of self-driving cars. When the public alcoholic consumption goes up, it benefits restaurants which serve alcohol. Perhaps many of these alcohol serving establishments are considering offering self-driving services as part of business. Drive-thru windows serving alcohol to passengers of self-driving cars is not far off.
There is some thought that with the introduction of more advanced self-driving car technology the drink age lowering is possible as driving safety increases. When more people drink more alcohol, the global economy is expected to soar by $31 billion according to Morgan Stanley.
Think of the possibilities of self-driving cars:
- Disabled drivers has autonomy
- College student drinking safety increases
- Drowsy commuters and travelers nap instead of drive
- Drinking and getting in a car is less of a dilemma
Drunk Self-driving
As it stands, if you are the in a self-driving car and pulled over while intoxicated you are drunk driving. The law has not changed to allow for self-driving cars. Ideally, the technology increases and makes it safer to be in a self-driving car regardless of physical or mental condition. It is a requirement for a driver to program, route, start, and sometimes have operator hands on the steering wheel, a self-driving car is considered a car in the control of the driver.
Promising Future
DUI is a possibility if you drink and drive any car. The self-driving car has a bright future, especially with big alcohol business backing the venture. MADD sees high hopes in the self-driving car as part of a broad solution to drunk driving fatalities. Continued testing of Self-driving cars means improvement, and soon you will see more on the roads. While some drivers do not embrace the self-driving cars on the roads, many others relish the possibilities of safer transportation options.
