The Rise of Driverless Cars in Texas: The Lone Star State Takes the Wheel

In the sprawling landscapes of Texas, where the open road calls out to adventurers and the highways seem to stretch endlessly, a new chapter in transportation is unfolding. The Lone Star State, known for its rodeos, oil derricks, and vast terrains, is now leading the charge in embracing the future of mobility: driverless cars.

The Texas Vision: Pioneering Automated Transportation

Texas has always had a penchant for embracing innovation. From the early days of the oil boom to the modern surge in tech companies setting roots in cities like Austin, Texas never shies away from change. And in the world of automated vehicles, Texas is once again proving its mettle.

Multiple cities in Texas, including Dallas, Austin, and Houston (where our Northwest Houston Law Firm is located!) have become testbeds for autonomous vehicle (AV) technology. These trials aim to improve road safety, optimize traffic flow, and cater to a growing demand for innovative transportation solutions.

When were Autonomous Vehicles Legalized in Texas?

In September 2017, Senate Bill 2205 was enacted, laying the foundation for AV regulations in Texas. State Senator Robert Nichols of Jacksonville, who also chairs the Senate Transportation Committee, mentioned that about six years prior, numerous car manufacturers approached them highlighting the need for legislative action. These manufacturers were keen on investing a significant sum in Texas for AV development.

Collaborative discussions were held involving the Texas Department of Transportation, the Department of Public Safety, the Department of Motor Vehicles, auto companies, and insurers. It was during these dialogues that Senator Nichols partnered with Senator Kelly Hancock of North Richland Hills, the main sponsor of SB 2205. Reflecting on the surge in AV advancements, Hancock stated that their goal was to draft a law that balanced innovation and government oversight, placing public safety at its heart.

“When we saw the boom in AV technology on the horizon,” Hancock said, “we began a series of stakeholder meetings to design legislation that would keep government from getting in the way of transportation innovation while also providing a regulatory framework with public safety at its core.”

The legislation contained a crucial clause designed to stimulate industry, and accelerate the advancement of the technology in Texas: It prohibited cities from intervening, in order to provide consistent policy for the entire state.

Do AVs Require a License in Texas?

Legally, AVs are still required to undergo inspections and licensing, though the process may be differ from traditional vehicles. However, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety, “if a vehicle is truly automated, a licensed human operator is not required to be in the vehicle and the vehicle itself is considered to be licensed to drive. In such situation, the owner of the vehicle is considered to be the operator for the purposes of assessing compliance with traffic laws.”

The Technology: Tech Meets Texas

While the concept of AVs is not unique to Texas, what sets the state apart is its proactive approach in facilitating this evolution. Texas has invested heavily in smart road infrastructure. But, these aren’t just ordinary roads, but are integrated with sensors, communication devices, and other technologies that feed real-time data to the AVs. An AV also comes fitted with sensors, including cameras, radar, and lidar (light detection and ranging), granting it a comprehensive perspective of its surroundings and employing GPS to determine its position. This sensor data is continuously relayed to the car’s AI system, allowing it to make decisions like selecting a path, recognizing traffic lights, road signs, and obstacles. This results in a presumably safer and more efficient driving experience.

Texas has also established designated zones for AV testing, ensuring that these vehicles get ample on-road experience before being released to the general public.

However, it’s not just the current technology and infrastructure that’s driving the AV revolution in Texas. Several tech giants and automobile companies have established their research and development hubs in the state. This influx of industry leaders is both a testament to Texas’s business-friendly environment and its commitment to pioneering AV technology.

Companies are drawn to Texas not just for its vast testing grounds, but also for its talent pool. With renowned institutions like the University of Texas advancing research in AI and robotics, there’s a steady stream of expertise flowing into the industry.

Are AVs Safe?

Between July 2021 and August 15 of the current year, the NHTSA recorded 382 accidents involving self-driving cars. California topped the list with 66% of the reported collisions, trailed by Arizona at 15%, Texas at 6%, and Florida at 4%.

In approximately 85% of these incidents, no injuries were documented, and only one severe injury necessitating hospital care or emergency attention was noted over the two-year span. However, nothing is completely safe: recently, there was a double- fatality here in Spring, Texas caused by a Tesla placed in “autodrive” mode.

Environmental and Economic Impact

Embracing driverless cars goes beyond just technological advancement. It has tangible environmental benefits. AVs, often electric, contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions. Moreover, with optimized driving patterns and reduced congestion, there’s potential for significant fuel savings.

The economic ripples are evident too. As the industry grows, it promises to bring with it jobs, investment, and a new era of transportation-related services, driving growth in ancillary sectors.

The Road Ahead

While the rise of driverless cars in Texas is impressive, it’s essential to remember that with innovation comes challenges. There are concerns about job displacements, especially among traditional drivers. Moreover, as with any new technology, there’s a learning curve for the public to trust and adapt to this new mode of transport.

However, if history has shown us anything, it’s that Texas is adept at evolving while holding on to its rich heritage. The cowboy on a horse might soon share the sunset with driverless cars, but in Texas, they’ll ride together towards a brighter, more connected future.

So, next time you’re on a Texas highway and notice a car smoothly gliding without a driver, know that it’s not just technology in motion, but a state’s vision unfolding before your very eyes.

We at the Herd Law Firm, PLLC, are Houston vehicle wreck lawyers, and represent people injured or killed by commercial trucks. We also support motorists and motorcyclists injured on the road, and have successfully represented all such victims seeking the assistance and compensation they so need and deserve.

10/10/2023