This chapter analyzes self-driving cars (SDCs), which are arguably one of the most promising applications of modern technology in intelligent transportation and human mobility. This technology will likely cause individuals to worry about its possible consequences on their legal status. The importance and applicative nature of events with SDCs indicate the relevance of such a study and the need to thoroughly investigate the legal ideas on criminal liability of SDCs for any accidents. In this chapter, the authors propose that legislators take action to create consistent legal standards that control the use of SDCs. It seeks to establish the legal standards governing the custody of persons blamed for accidents arising from adopting intelligent transportation systems. It stressed the urgent need to create appropriate legislative or regulatory frameworks under which SDC developers and system operators are obliged to work, coupled with the need to change traffic rules to help regulate the use of SDCs and keep pace with new technological developments.
This chapter examines self-driving cars (SDCs) as one of the most transformative innovations in intelligent transportation systems and modern human mobility. While the rapid deployment of this technology promises significant benefits—particularly in terms of safety, efficiency, and reduced human error—it simultaneously raises complex legal concerns, especially regarding criminal liability arising from accidents involving autonomous systems. The increasing frequency and practical relevance of incidents involving SDCs underscore the necessity of reassessing traditional legal doctrines that were developed around human drivers and direct human control.
The chapter emphasizes that the introduction of SDCs challenges established concepts of fault, culpability, and responsibility in criminal law. As decision-making is increasingly delegated to automated systems and artificial intelligence, uncertainty arises concerning the legal status of individuals connected to these vehicles, including owners, users, developers, manufacturers, and system operators. This legal ambiguity requires a comprehensive analysis of how to assign criminal liability when autonomous driving technologies cause harm.
In response to these challenges, the authors argue for proactive legislative intervention aimed at developing coherent and consistent legal standards governing the deployment and operation of SDCs. Such standards should define the scope of criminal responsibility and establish rules concerning the custody and legal treatment of persons implicated in accidents linked to intelligent transportation systems. The chapter emphasizes the inadequacy of relying solely on existing traffic and criminal laws, given their inability to integrate autonomous decision-making technologies.
Furthermore, the study emphasizes the need to create comprehensive legislative and regulatory frameworks that impose clear obligations on SDC developers, manufacturers, and system operators. Targeted reforms of traffic regulations should complement these frameworks to ensure effective oversight, public safety, and legal certainty. Ultimately, the chapter concludes that adapting criminal law and traffic regulation to technological advancements is essential to maintaining accountability, safeguarding rights, and ensuring the lawful integration of self-driving cars into modern transportation systems.