Is the Law Ready for Autonomous Cars?

Abstract

Autonomous driving becomes real. For the first time ever the insertion of artificial intelligence into self-propelled machines, which can now operate themselves is likely to make human being as a driver redundant. Machines have the legal status of manufactured objects or instruments, but are the legal rules applicable to objects able to capture the consequences of the machine’s ability to move freely particularly? The distribution of responsibility and product liability, technical standards and obviously the insurance matter are to be shaped in this respect. Besides, a special focus shall be given on data and cyber security which need to protect data autonomy and privacy to reassure potential consumers.