Driverless cars can start getting traffic tickets this summer in California

Topline:

Why are we ticketing robots? The rules are meant to enhance safety requirements, oversight and enforcement, according to the DMV. Driverless robotaxis, such as Waymo, have taken over parts of Los Angeles and caused outcry for crashing into parked cars in Echo Park or injuring a child near a Santa Monica elementary school. Other companies, such as Zoox, also plan to expand into Los Angeles. Waymo did not immediately respond to LAist’s request for comment.

What are the rules: According to the new law, officers can issue a notice to the manufacturer if they see an autonomous vehicle break traffic laws. Manufacturers that don’t comply could have their permits restricted or suspended.

Other highlights: 

• Local emergency officials can issue electric geofencing boundaries to clear autonomous vehicles from active emergency zones. 
• Local governments can also issue temporary “do not enter” or “restricted” zones in response to public safety issues. 
• Carmakers must provide access to the manual override system on autonomous vehicles and allow two-way communication lines between operators and first responders. 

Go deeper… We took self-driving Waymo cars for a test ride. This is what happened.