For better or worse, it seems inevitable that autonomous vehicles will one day become a normal part of the landscape. Will they make the roads safer? Or will technology prove less reliable than human intelligence? Only time will tell, but here are a few factors to consider.
Pro: The roads could become less hazardous.
It’s definitely possible for autonomous vehicles to reduce traffic accidents, and their resultant injuries and fatalities. The vast majority of traffic accidents are attributable to driver error, including distracted driving, drunk and substance-impaired driving, fatigued driving, and reckless driving. Fully autonomous vehicles eliminate the possibility of human error.
Con: The transition period can be dangerous.
When there are both human-driven vehicles and autonomous vehicles on the road, it’s possible for traffic accidents to increase. This may be due to humans’ lack of experience with the new technology, and the uncertain interactions between autonomous vehicles and human-driven vehicles. And if transportation never becomes fully autonomous, teen drivers could become more dangerous because they may not have enough opportunities to gain experience behind the wheel.
Pro: Transportation can become more user-friendly.
Autonomous vehicles could automatically download real-time traffic information. They can then use this information to reroute themselves around traffic jams, which can improve traffic congestion. Undoubtedly, this would decrease traffic congestion-related headaches for the human occupants. And if sitting in a traffic jam is inevitable, human occupants can pass the time by working or engaging in leisurely activities.
Con: Utilization of public transportation may decrease.
Although it’s possible for autonomous vehicles to improve the flow of traffic, it’s also possible that traffic congestion could actually get worse. This may happen if on-demand autonomous transportation becomes a reality, leading people to summon a car when they need one instead of relying on public transportation like buses and subways.
No matter how safe autonomous vehicles become in the future, they can’t replace the human intelligence of Xcel Delivery Services’ professional drivers. We use the latest tracking technology on our fleet so you’ll always know exactly where your shipment is. Call our Tucson office at (520) 355-4897 to discuss your same-day delivery needs.
