Brits speak out on self-driving cars
Self-driving vehicles are no longer a futuristic concept. Fully self-driving vehicles are already being hailed in the USA, as driverless taxis are available in many major cities. Here in the UK, Uber has announced plans to introduce autonomous cars, with no human safety driver at the wheel, in London next spring.
However, our research shows that Brits feel far from ready.
A recent survey of 2,000 people reveals widespread concerns about safety, law adequacy, and trust in the technology behind self-driving cars.
Key statistics at a glance:
Safety concerns remain high
58% of respondents identified safety as a barrier to adopting self-driving cars.
Trust in technology is low
50% said a lack of trust in the technology would hold them back from buying an autonomous vehicle.
Expectations of legal change
59% believe drivers should need new licences for self-driving cars, and 78% want stricter safety tests.
Projected adoption timeline
Brits estimate it will take an average of 15 years for fully autonomous vehicles to dominate UK roads.
High insurance expectations
Nearly half (47%) think owners of self-driving cars should pay higher insurance premiums.
What would increase trust in self-driving cars?
Respondents highlighted several factors that could help them feel more confident about autonomous vehicles, including:
- More studies and safety research (38%)
- Clearer safety legislation for manufacturers (28%)
- Improved technology and AI reliability (26%)
- Public endorsements from trusted safety organisations (20%)
However, a significant proportion (42%) admitted that nothing would increase their trust in self-driving technology.
Who's liable? The biggest concern for many
One of the most significant challenges surrounding autonomous vehicles is liability. If a self-driving car is involved in an accident, who's at fault - the driver, the software, or the manufacturer?
Our findings reveal that 41% of respondents are deeply concerned about personal injuries caused by self-driving cars, and over half admitted they'd be more likely to make an insurance claim if the other vehicle involved was autonomous.
John Kushnick, Legal Operations Director at National Accident Helpline, notes,
With autonomous vehicles, liability is one of the biggest questions we must address as a society. While self-driving cars have the potential to reduce accidents caused by human error, they create complex legal challenges around fault and responsibility. Establishing clear, enforceable guidelines will be critical in the years ahead.
Building public understanding
There's also a need to educate the public about the safety and benefits of autonomous vehicles. Many of our respondents claimed they'd trust autopilot in planes more than in cars. This underscores not only a lack of familiarity with self-driving technology but also the importance of building trust through education and transparency.
Kushnick adds,
Most accidents are caused by human error—not technology. Yet it's human nature to fear what we don't fully understand. Just as we've become accustomed to autopilot on planes, I believe we'll eventually adapt to self-driving cars. But for that to happen, manufacturers, regulators, and safety advocates must prioritise transparency, education, and continuous improvement.
Have you suffered an accident on a UK road?
Whether you were hurt by an autonomous vehicle or not, if the accident wasn't your fault - you may be able to claim compensation.
Contact us if you've been involved in any of the following types of accident:
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"Most accidents are caused by human error—not technology. Yet it's human nature to fear what we don't fully understand. Just as we've become accustomed to autopilot on planes, I believe we'll eventually adapt to self-driving cars"
John Kushnick
Legal Operations DirectorCall today for free, expert legal advice
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