Consumer Groups Urge Congress to Slow Down on Self-Driving Car Legislation

The Center for Auto Safety is the nation’s premier independent, member driven, non-profit consumer advocacy organization dedicated to improving vehicle safety, quality, and fuel economy on behalf of all drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

SEATTLE — Automakers say they’re making great progress in developing self-driving cars that are ready to hit the road. And they’re encouraged that Congress seems eager to pass legislation that will make this possible. Consumer advocates want lawmakers to step on the brakes and slow things down a bit.

Congress is considering legislation that would make it possible for automakers to have hundreds of thousands self-driving cars on the nation’s roadways in just a few years – as long as they’re operated by employees. These autonomous vehicles would not be required to have equipment needed for human operation, such as steering wheels or brakes.

Consumer advocates worry that these bills need a major tune-up. On the KOMO Midday News (weekdays 1 -3pm), Jason Levine, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, shared his concerns.

Click here to listen to the interview