U.S. Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA) recently sent letters to more than 25 manufactures of autonomous vehicles, seeking information on safety protocols for test-driving the vehicles.
The letters are in response to the National Transportation Safety Board’s recent report on its investigation of the fatal February accident involving an Uber test vehicle. The SUV had a driver in the car and was equipped with advanced drivers assist functions but struck a pedestrian.
“This latest fatality has raised many questions about the processes companies have in place to guard public safety when testing this type of technology on public roads,” the senators said. “Although we understand that Uber and several other AV companies have temporarily halted vehicle testing, we would like to know more about your company’s protocols for test-driving AVs on public roads and how they will be adjusted in light of the recent tragedy.”
Questions asked include: How many employees are required to be in the AV during testing, and how have protocols regarding the number of drivers changed over time? How does your company select drivers for its AVs and what minimum requirements are needed to become a driver?
Automakers must respond by June 8.