Autonomous Vehicles: A Policy Roadmap for Law Enforcement
Abstract
As of 2015, manufacturers and technology innovators are racing to perfect the autonomous vehicle for mainstream use. Advances in technology have proven that autonomous vehicles are no longer held back by engineering. Currently, there are hundreds being tested amongst us on California roadways with great results. The positive impacts autonomous vehicles strive to provide include increased safety, decreased traffic congestion, increased fuel efficiency, reduced pollution, decreased impaired driving, and mobility for those unable to drive. Like any innovative technology, autonomous vehicles face challenges, such as regulatory tribulations, layers of safety testing, political and legal scrutiny, and public apprehension. They will also present challenges and opportunities for law enforcement as they are tested and eventually become mainstream. This thesis provides an introduction to the key strategies the California Highway Patrol (CHP) should foster to support the safe introduction of autonomous vehicles while sustaining strategic relevance. Through scenario planning, the CHP can avoid long-term planning based on a single predicted outcome and identify commonalities in numerous scenarios and plan accordingly. Policy recommendations include collaboration with stakeholders, an increase in the presence in cyber investigations, an increase of high-tech workforce, expansion of high-tech collision investigation capability, and encouragement of the appropriate regulations without hindering the technology.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2015
- Accession Number
- ADA632369
Entities
People
- Doug A. Lyons
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School