As autonomous vehicles become a more common sight on today's roads, they spark both public excitement and cause for concern. Proponents argue that self-driving cars could reduce the risk of car accidents by eliminating human error. Skeptics worry about the safety and reliability of this new technology.
To gain a clearer understanding of public opinion, Forbes commissioned a survey conducted by OnePoll of 2,000 Americans between January 9 and January 11, 2024. The survey reveals a complex picture of how Americans view the rise of self-driving vehicles and offers insight into their potential future on our roads.
What did the survey reveal about crash rates for self-driving cars?
One of the survey's key findings is the high crash rate associated with self-driving cars. Despite the promise of safer roads, the data suggests that autonomous vehicles may not yet live up to their potential.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), self-driving vehicles are involved in more than twice the number of car accidents per mile driven compared to traditional vehicles. On average, there are about 9.1 crashes per million vehicle miles driven by autonomous vehicles, compared to 4.2 crashes per million miles for conventional vehicles.
Many of these crashes involve Tesla vehicles, accounting for more than two-thirds (69.64%) of all crashes involving Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). In 2022 alone, Tesla reported 273 ADAS crashes, outpacing Honda, which reported 90 crashes. These statistics have heightened consumer concerns, particularly in light of recent recalls involving nearly all of Tesla's autonomous vehicles. These recalls followed an NHTSA probe that revealed nearly 1,000 car accidents that occurred when Tesla's autopilot was engaged.
How much do Americans trust self-driving cars?
Trust in self-driving technology remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption. The Forbes survey found that a vast majority of Americans harbor reservations about the safety and reliability of autonomous vehicles. For example:
- 93% of respondents expressed concerns about some aspects of self-driving cars.
- 36% don't trust the technology to keep drivers and pedestrians safe.
- Just over a quarter cited concerns about potential malfunctions in autopilot systems.
- 61% of Americans don't trust self-driving cars with their loved ones or children.
- 69% of consumers feel negatively about the changes autonomous vehicles will bring to American roads.
- Only 16% of consumers feel excited about the future of self-driving technology, while 45% expressed skepticism and concern.
- Just 8% felt positive about these vehicles.
How likely are Americans to own self-driving cars in the future?
Given the skepticism, it's not surprising that most Americans are reluctant to embrace self-driving cars in the near future. According to the Forbes survey, more than half (51%) of consumers are somewhat or very unlikely to own or use a self-driving vehicle within the next five years. Only 14% of respondents believe they are very likely to own a vehicle with self-driving capabilities.
Global management consulting company McKinsey & Co. projects that by 2030, only 12% of new passenger vehicles will come standard with advanced auto-drive technologies. This number is expected to increase to 37% by 2035. But even then, self-driving cars will likely comprise a small percentage of the overall passenger vehicle market.
Another significant barrier to the adoption of self-driving cars is the cost. The development of advanced self-driving technology comes with a hefty price tag, and many consumers are unwilling to pay a premium for these features. The Forbes survey found that only 29% of Americans are willing to pay extra for self-driving capabilities, with just 13% describing themselves as very willing to do so. By contrast, 52% of respondents indicated they are either very or somewhat unwilling to pay additional costs associated with autonomous driving technology.
Self-driving cars aren't foolproof—get legal help if you're injured
The research shows us that self-driving cars are not infallible. Drivers of these vehicles still have an obligation to stay attentive and in control. If you or a loved one was hurt in a crash with a driver who failed to do so, it's important that you get legal help as soon as possible.
An experienced New Mexico car accident lawyer at Szantho Law Firm can build a strong case on your behalf and help secure maximum compensation for your damages. To find out how we can help you, contact us today for a free consultation. With offices in Albuquerque and Santa Fe, we serve injured motorists and their families across New Mexico.
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