How Self-Driving Cars Could Increase Accidents

Self-driving cars are often promoted as the future of transportation, promising fewer accidents, smoother traffic, and improved mobility for all. However, despite their potential, autonomous vehicles (AVs) come with significant risks that could lead to increased accident rates rather than reducing them.

Understanding Levels of Automation

To better grasp the challenges and benefits of self-driving cars, it is essential to understand the five levels of vehicle automation, as defined by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE):

1. Level 0: No Automation
   • The driver performs all tasks, including steering, braking, and navigating. Basic systems like cruise control may assist but do not take control.
2. Level 1: Driver Assistance
   • Features like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist can support the driver but still require constant supervision.
3. Level 2: Partial Automation
   • The car can handle steering and acceleration/deceleration simultaneously under specific conditions, such as on highways. The driver must remain engaged and ready to take over.
4. Level 3: Conditional Automation
   • The vehicle can perform most driving tasks in certain environments, but human intervention may be required if the system encounters a situation it cannot handle.
5. Level 4: High Automation
   • The car can operate autonomously in defined conditions (e.g., geofenced areas) without human input but may still have manual controls.
6. Level 5: Full Automation
   • The vehicle can perform all driving functions in all conditions without any human intervention, effectively eliminating the need for a driver.

Most commercially available self-driving cars today operate at Level 2 or Level 3, with companies like Tesla and Waymo striving toward Level 4 and 5.

AI Driving Dangers and Shortcomings of Self-Driving Cars

Autonomous vehicles (AVs) rely on advanced AI systems, but several challenges remain:

• Sensor and Software Issues: Faulty sensors or software glitches can result in dangerous navigation errors, like missing obstacles or misjudging traffic patterns.
• Dependency: Overreliance on autopilot features and improper use of automation can lead to accidents.
• Cybersecurity Risks: AVs are vulnerable to hacking, which could compromise controls or sensitive data.
• Weather and Infrastructure Challenges: Adverse weather and poor road conditions, such as faded lane markings or construction zones, disrupt vehicle systems.
• Mixed Traffic Dynamics: Human unpredictability complicates interactions between AVs and traditional drivers, increasing accident risks.

Self-Driving Cars and Accident Statistics

Autonomous vehicle companies have been required to report crash data to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) since June 2021, with records updated through December 2024. Below is a breakdown of crash statistics and additional insights into autonomous vehicle collisions:

Year	No. of ADS-Equipped Vehicle Crashes	No. of Level 2 ADAS-Equipped Vehicle Crashes
2021	71	226
2022	165	543
2023	288	550
2024	475	736

• From 2021 to 2024, Waymo LLC reported the most crashes involving ADS-equipped vehicles, with a total of 630 crashes.
• For Level 2 ADAS-equipped vehicles, Tesla reported the most crashes, with a total of 1,745 crashes from 2021 to 2024.
• As of January 17, 2025, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has received 781 Autonomous Vehicle Collision Reports.
• California recorded the highest number of self-driving incidents, followed by Texas and Arizona, respectively.

How Self-Driving Cars Can Worsen Safety

While autonomous vehicles offer potential safety improvements, they can also introduce new risks:

• False Sense of Security: The term “driverless” leads to a belief that no human intervention is necessary, which can cause distraction and reliance on the technology, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Cybersecurity Risks: Self-driving cars are susceptible to hacking, potentially allowing unauthorized control and creating dangerous situations.
• Imperfect Technology: Issues such as disengagement of assistance systems can leave drivers unprepared, especially if distracted.
• Mixed Traffic: AVs sharing roads with human-driven vehicles may lead to confusion and accidents due to differing driving behaviors.

Potential Benefits of Self-Driving Cars

Despite these risks, self-driving cars also offer potential advantages that could enhance safety. Self-driving cars hold the potential to revolutionize road safety and transportation. As outlined by the NHTSA, these vehicles could bring the following benefits:

• Reduced Crashes: Autonomous vehicles (AVs) aim to address the leading cause of traffic accidents—human error—by eliminating distractions, fatigue, and impaired driving.
• Improved Traffic Flow: AV systems can communicate with each other to optimize traffic patterns, reduce congestion, and minimize delays.
• Accessibility for All: Self-driving technology can offer mobility solutions to individuals who are unable to drive, such as the elderly or people with disabilities, enhancing their independence.
• Environmental Benefits: By streamlining routes and reducing unnecessary braking or idling, AVs could improve fuel efficiency and lower emissions.
• Enhanced Transportation Efficiency: Freight and delivery systems may become faster and more reliable with autonomous technology, benefiting businesses and consumers alike.

Which Countries Are Strict on Self-Driving Cars?

Many countries have implemented various levels of regulation for autonomous vehicles (AVs). While some countries are relatively open to testing and deployment, others are stricter, imposing clear rules and safety measures. Here’s a summary of how different countries approach AV regulations:

• Germany: Has strict laws, requiring AVs to have black boxes and only allowing public road tests with safety measures in place.
• France: Permits Level 4 AVs without a driver but mandates remote control for safety in mixed traffic.
• Switzerland: Allows Level 4 AVs only in designated areas, with proof of technical readiness required.
• South Korea: Has dedicated test cities like K-City for safe AV trials, supporting AV development with controlled environments.
• United States: Regulations vary by state, with some allowing AVs on public roads, leading to inconsistency across the country.

Are Self-Driving Cars Safe?

The safety of self-driving cars is still a debated topic. Currently, autonomous vehicles (AVs) experience more accidents per million miles than human-driven cars—9.1 compared to 4.1. However, injuries in AV-related crashes tend to be less severe.

While human error remains a leading cause of accidents, autonomous technology has faster reaction times due to advanced sensors. Despite this, the limited data available makes it difficult to definitively compare safety outcomes.

As self-driving technology evolves, advancements in AI, stricter safety regulations, and widespread adoption may pave the way for a safer future. Until then, both risks and potential benefits coexist as the technology develops.

Injured by an Autonomous Vehicle? We Can Help

While the future of self-driving cars promises a major shift in transportation, their impact on road safety is still being debated. As AV technology develops, accidents involving these vehicles are becoming more frequent. If you’ve been injured by an autonomous vehicle, our car accident lawyers are here to provide expert legal guidance and help you navigate the complexities of these emerging cases. Reach out to us for the support you need.