Autonomous Trucks vs US States: Major Safety Concerns

The trucking industry is no stranger to change, but the rise of autonomous vehicles on our highways is bringing about a new set of challenges and opportunities. In statehouses across the nation, legislators are working to strike a balance between embracing the potential benefits of autonomous trucks and ensuring safety on the road while protecting jobs for truck drivers.

Indiana: A Move Toward Enhanced Safety Measures

In Indiana, the discussion centers around Senate Bill 57 and House Bill 1022, both of which aim to modify the state’s rules regarding autonomous vehicles. Currently, Indiana law allows automated vehicle platooning to operate at speeds and following distances that would be considered faster and closer than what would be reasonable and prudent without electronic coordination. However, there is no specific requirement for a human operator to be present in these vehicles.

Sen. Jim Tomes and Rep. Cindy Ledbetter, both from Indiana, have introduced bipartisan legislation that seeks to address this gap in the law. Their proposed bills would specify that an autonomous tractor-trailer on a highway must have a human operator physically present. Additionally, these operators must meet all state and federal qualifications to operate the vehicle.

Sen. Tomes emphasized the importance of aligning the law with the evolving technology landscape: “With new technology on the horizon and more self-driving vehicles being used on our roadways, it is important our laws reflect these changes to keep Hoosiers safe. Driverless vehicles, especially large trucks, could pose a danger on our public roads if not monitored properly.”

These bills, HB1022 and SB57, are currently under review in their respective transportation committees, reflecting Indiana’s commitment to ensuring the safe integration of autonomous trucks into their transportation system.

New York: Prioritizing Safety and Job Security

New York is also taking steps to address the issue of autonomous trucks on its roads. Presently, state law does not require large vehicles to have a human operator capable of taking control in case of an emergency. Sen. Pete Harckham has introduced a bill, S7758, that seeks to change this by requiring operators to accompany autonomous trucks weighing over 10,000 pounds while traveling the state’s roadways.

Sen. Harckham emphasized the importance of safeguarding both public safety and jobs within the trucking industry: “The integral role of the trucking industry in our lives means we have to be proactive and vigilant about public safety and job security when it comes to technological innovations like autonomous operating vehicles.” He added that this common-sense measure would provide job security for more than 270,000 New Yorkers, highlighting the significance of the trucking industry in the state.

The bill, S7758, is currently in the Senate Transportation Committee, indicating New York’s commitment to striking the right balance between technological innovation and safety.

California’s Different Perspective

In contrast to Indiana and New York, California took a different stance when it comes to autonomous trucking. In September, Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed legislation that would have required a “human safety operator physically present” in autonomous vehicles with a gross vehicle weight of at least 10,001 pounds during testing and transportation of goods or passengers.

Newsom’s veto message emphasized that existing laws in California already provide sufficient authority to regulate autonomous vehicle technology. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) continuously monitors and oversees testing and operations of autonomous vehicles on California roads, with the authority to suspend or revoke permits as necessary to ensure public safety.

The California perspective highlights the ongoing debate surrounding autonomous trucking and the varying approaches taken by different states.

The Truck Platooning Debate

The issue of autonomous trucks is not without its share of supporters and critics. Advocates of truck platooning argue that the technology can save fuel, reduce aerodynamic drag, alleviate traffic congestion, and improve highway safety. However, it is worth noting that this technology tends to work best on relatively flat, divided highways in less populated areas.

Critics raise concerns about how autonomous and traditional vehicles will interact on the road. Questions also linger about the practicality and feasibility of widespread autonomous truck adoption.

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association acknowledges the potential of autonomous technology but expresses concerns about its impact on commercial vehicles and highway safety. Striking the right balance between embracing innovation and ensuring safety remains a priority for the trucking industry.

In Conclusion

The pursuit of legislation to regulate the use of autonomous trucks on state roadways is a reflection of the evolving landscape in the trucking industry. States like Indiana and New York are taking proactive steps to ensure safety and protect jobs while integrating autonomous technology into their transportation systems. In contrast, California’s decision to veto such legislation highlights the ongoing debate and diverse approaches to this complex issue.

As technology continues to advance, the trucking industry will undoubtedly undergo significant changes. The key lies in finding a harmonious balance that maximizes the benefits of autonomous trucks while prioritizing safety on our roads and job security for truck drivers. Truck drivers and industry stakeholders will continue to watch these developments closely as the news unfolds in statehouses across the nation.