Jacksonville is now part of a self-driving car pilot program designed to test and track automated vehicle technology across the country.
Jacksonville joins self-driving pilot program
Drivers in Jacksonville can now participate in a self-driving car pilot program that tracks automated driving systems through an online platform known as the AV TEST (Automated Vehicle Transparency and Engagement for Safe Testing) Initiative.
Jacksonville is one of several cities across the United States where the program is being tested, including Orlando, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Austin, Columbus, Pittsburgh, Washington, D.C., and San Francisco.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) oversees the program and describes participants as stakeholders involved in the on-road testing of automated vehicles, including developers, operators, and government entities.
According to James Owens, Deputy Administrator of NHTSA, increased transparency helps the public better understand both the potential and limitations of self-driving technology as it continues to develop.
One of the vehicles currently being tracked in Jacksonville is the autonomous shuttle manufactured by Navya, which has been used to transport COVID-19 tests to the Mayo Clinic.
You can explore the program using the AV TEST tracking tool provided by NHTSA.
If you have been involved in an accident—whether involving a traditional or automated vehicle—speak with a Jacksonville car accident lawyer to understand your options.