How Do Driverless Vehicles Work?

Self-driving cars utilize technology to navigate to and from locations that the occupants set. Some of these cars are partially automated and still need some driver interaction. They use sensors and other technology to operate primarily without the interaction of a human.

Some of the crash avoidance technology used in driverless vehicles includes:

Ultrasonic Sensors

Ultrasonic sensors are active sensors, much like radar or sonar. They work by using ultrasonic waves that measure distances between objects. They are particularly good at detecting approaching obstacles within close range. They make good parking sensors and can pick up hazards like traffic cones and barriers.

RADAR Sensors

RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) sensors use radio waves. The system consists of a transmitter that produces electromagnetic waves, a transmitting antenna, a receiving antenna, a receiver, and a processor to determine the properties of objects that are sensed.

Radio waves are sent out, reflect off objects, and return to the receiver. The processor then uses that information to determine the object’s location and speed.

RADAR sensors operate well over long distances, conditions, and environments. They are also not sensitive to dirt and other debris because they do not have any mechanical moving parts.

LIDAR Sensors

LIDAR (Light Imaging Detection and Ranging) is a type of surveying technology that uses laser light pulses that are very precise. The light pulses used by LIDAR can easily pick up pedestrians, other vehicles, and objects in the roadway at any speed.

LIDAR is better at detecting small objects thanks to its short wavelength. It can build an exact 3D monochromatic image of an object to avoid.

Limitations on this technology include usage at nighttime or in bad weather. Additionally, this technology is quite a bit more expensive than RADAR.

Software Failures in Driverless Vehicles

Fully automated cars utilize an array of hardware that guides them to identified locations. It takes carefully developed software to operate that hardware and make sure the vehicle navigates safely and efficiently.

When there is a software failure in a driverless vehicle, everyone is in danger. It might not navigate to the right location, but it might also fail to avoid obstacles and other vehicles or people on the road.

Software failure can result in a self-driving car accident. If that happens, you should immediately contact an autonomous vehicle lawyer to find out how to move forward with a claim.

Self-Driving Car Accident Liability

Many people could be responsible for damages in a self-driving car accident. If a malfunction of your automated vehicle caused the crash, then the vehicle manufacturer may be to blame.

GM, Ford, Daimler-Bosch, Tesla, Waymo, BMW, and Volkswagen must meet safety regulations when building these types of vehicles. If they create a dangerous or defective vehicle, then they can be held accountable.

Contact Pennsylvania Self-Driving Car Attorneys for Help

If you were involved in a crash with a self-driving car, whether you were riding in one or were injured by another vehicle, you need to contact an attorney.

There is a lot of technology involved with these claims, and the insurance companies may try to drag out your settlement or make you a lowball offer. They have enough money to cover your damages, and they should be held accountable.

Call Atlee Hall today at (717) 393-9596 or use our online contact form to reach out for a free consultation.