A German engineering and auto parts company, Bosch, has announced the development and testing of a new technology that could allow cars to detect pedestrians in the roadway and intervene in the event of an anticipated collision by steering away from the pedestrian and applying the brakes to avoid an accident. According to a Chicago Times report, the technology that is being tested would only intervene to prevent a collision if the driver of the car failed to take preventative measures on their own, leaving the driver in control of the vehicle until the last possible moment.
The announcement from Bosch comes at a time when technological advances have been made across the board in the automotive industry, many geared toward autonomous or self-driving cars.
The Latest Technology Can Help Make the Roads Safer
The system developed by Bosch uses cameras mounted on the car to detect the location and movement of pedestrians in the roadway. Using computer programming that is still being developed, the system will be able to accurately predict the most likely course that a pedestrian may take in anticipation of the collision. Using that data, the program can intervene to avoid a crash. By predicting the pedestrian’s response to an imminent collision, the system hopes to reduce auto-pedestrian collisions, as well as the injuries and fatalities that often result in their aftermath.
Legal Issues with Self-Driving Vehicles and Automated Safety Systems
The idea of self-driving vehicles with partially automated driving or accident avoidance systems, while appealing in many ways, presents unique legal issues that will become increasingly apparent as the technology continues to grow. The Illinois Vehicle Code requires drivers to operate their vehicles in accordance with all traffic laws, and a motorist who causes an accident while in violation of a traffic law can be given a citation and held accountable for any injuries caused in the crash by filing an Illinois accident lawsuit.
In a future that contains fully autonomous and partially automated vehicles sharing the roads with traditional cars, accidents may occur that no one person could be held accountable for. As the technology advances, laws will be passed to address this area of concern, but accident victims should always seek competent legal counsel in the event of a crash.
Should You Contact an Attorney?
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in an Illinois car crash, a qualified Illinois accident attorney can help you receive compensation for the damages caused by the negligent driver. The dedicated Chicago personal injury and wrongful death attorneys at the Cavanagh Sorich Law Group have the experience that is needed to successfully try any accident case. Our accident lawyers strive to get our clients the maximum amount of compensation for their claims, and you can be confident that your case is being handled properly. The Cavanagh Sorich Law Group represents clients in most personal injury and wrongful death cases, including auto-pedestrian accidents.