Posted by Pros of Self-Driving cars
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Prevent Car Crashes
Of the 37,133 of vehicle fatalities in 2017, around 94% of the crashes were because of human error. Computers based on sophisticated systems and algorithms will essentially eliminate costly human error. Major causes of accidents, including drunk or distracted driving, will not be factors with self-driving cars. It’s estimated self-driving cars can reduce accidents by up to 90%.
2. Societal Cost-Savings
Reports have shown that autonomous vehicles can help save society approximately $800 billion each year. The reduction in car crash-related costs, reduced strain on the healthcare system, more efficient transportation, better fuel savings, and more can all contribute to the overall societal cost-savings.
3. Better Access & Mode of Transportation
For those who cannot or choose not to drive, self-driving cars could be a safe and reliable mode of transportation. Those with a disability or the elderly would be able to get into a self-driving car without putting others at risk.
4. Environmentally Friendly
Another significant factor in the self-driving cars pros and cons debate is the environment. Autonomous cars will likely be electric rather than utilizing internal-combustion engines. Furthermore, the consistent speeds self-driving cars will be traveling at will reduce constant braking and accelerating. These factors will all contribute to reducing emissions and becoming more environmentally sustainable.
Related link: 8 Reasons Why Gas Cars Are Better Than Electric?
Cons of Self-Driving Cars
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Security Issues
One of the potential cons about self-driving vehicles is the possibility of hacking. To have automated cars talk and coordinate with each other, they would need to share the same network protocol. If a large number of cars share the same network, however, they would be susceptible to a hack. Even a small hack could wreak significant damage on busy roads by causing collisions and gridlock traffic.
2. Job Losses
Those who depend on driving to make a living may find their career obsolete with the introduction of self-driving vehicles. Those in the trucking industry, bus drivers, taxi drivers, will all need to find new employment. Fast food delivery and Uber drivers would also find themselves replaced by automated cars.
3. Initial Costs
While self-driving cars may result in significant long-term societal cost savings, the initial cost of automated vehicles could be unsustainable. According to some experts, buying a fully automated vehicle may cost an extra $250,000 each vehicle. Of course, as new technology matures, prices should fall. However, in the early phases, the barrier to entrance may be too high for the general public.
4. Machine Error
Although most people agree that self-driving vehicles will likely reduce the likelihood of accidents, they do not eliminate the risk of machine error. Furthermore, if the car’s software or any other component fails, an autonomous vehicle may place the driver at greater risk than if the driver assumed physical control of the vehicle.