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The Ethical Dilemmas of Self-Driving Cars

Self-driving vehicles are becoming more and more of a reality. Many companies are testing their vehicles on roadways. Many states are embracing these vehicles, which are touted as a way to reduce car accidents. In fact, studies show that self-driving vehicles could reduce car accidents by as much as 90 percent.

However, there is no way to eliminate accidents entirely. In fact, a self-driving Uber vehicle recently struck and killed a pedestrian in Arizona. So what happens when a crash cannot be avoided? What factors play into how the vehicle will react?

It’s important that these questions get answered soon. Even though we have the technology, we now need to incorporate ethics into the equation. Artificial intelligence does not have the ability to process the decisions that we as humans must do when we are in a traffic situation.

For example, consider the type of ethical dilemma that occurs when a child runs in front of a vehicle. Does the driver keep going straight and hit the child? Should he or she go to the left and hit a vehicle, or go to the right and possibly hit a pedestrian?

Germany has answered this question by equipping self-driving vehicles with guidelines. For example, the vehicle should always minimize human death regardless of the victim’s age or gender. Property and animals are given lower priority.

The Future of Self-Driving Cars

Despite the recent pedestrian death and concerns about self-driving vehicles, Ford will continue to keep autonomous vehicles on roads in South Florida. The auto manufacturer began testing self-driving vehicles in Miami-Dade County in February. Despite traffic in the area, no vehicles have crashed as of yet. Only two self-driving vehicles are on county roads at this time.

While Uber has announced that it would cease all self-driving tests for the time being, Ford does not plan to do so. Uber has used Ford vehicles for vehicle testing in the past, but with Uber’s own technology.

Experts believe that people in general will gradually become more acclimated to self-driving vehicles. After all, people take taxis or ride in vehicles as a passenger. This is similar to what being in an autonomous vehicle will be like. You will be giving up control to some degree, but at the same time, you will also gain control.

You won’t need to own a vehicle. You’ll just hire one as needed. You will also have more control as a passenger, since you will be able to set preferences and routes.

Reach Out to a Miami Personal Injury Attorney Today

Self-driving cars are not infallible. They have already caused accidents and even killed a person.

Have you or a loved one been injured by a self-driving car? What are your legal rights? While the law is still unclear in this case, the Miami, Florida personal injury lawyers at Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP can formulate a solid case. We can help you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Schedule your consultation today. Call us at (305) 371-2692 or visit us online.