New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo recently announced that in 2018, companies will be allowed to submit applications that, if accepted, would allow them to use roads throughout the state to test autonomous vehicles. The program would allow companies who test the cars to do so for a year. The Governor states that the motive behind allowing self-driving cars on New York roads is to reduce the number of drivers who are driving recklessly or in an unsafe manner. Ultimately, the goal is to reduce the number of car accidents throughout the state.

It is important that before autonomous vehicles are officially legalized and integrated into New York’s roads, they are properly tested and all possible safety hazards are assessed. It will likely be a few more years until self-driving vehicles are commonly utilized on New York’s network of busy roads but until then, it will be interesting to see how this impacts the rate of accidents and fatalities related to motor vehicle accidents.

In order for companies to apply to test autonomous vehicles on New York roads, they must have a $5 million insurance policy because the risk is much higher than many other situations. All of the self-driving vehicles must have a licensed driver in the car who can take control of the vehicle if need be. Prior to going anywhere, the vehicle must detail its route and make sure it does not enter any construction or school zones.

If you become injured in an accident with an autonomous vehicle, contact an experienced personal injury attorney today.

The Law Office of Richard M. Kenny has over a combined century of experience in dealing with personal injury lawsuits and has achieved over nine figures in verdicts and settlements, proving their success rate in the courtroom. Contact the Law Office of Richard M. Kenny today to figure out your next steps and speak with an attorney who cares.