Barry.Nilsson. raises alarm on driverless vehicles
National law firm Barry.Nilsson. has issued a warning over driverless vehicles, noting that Australian law is “seriously lagging” in dealing with the risks they pose to consumers.
![driverless vehicles, cars](/images/articleImages-850x492/cars-lw.jpg)
The firm's recent discussion paper highlighted that while 5G wireless networks are poised to go live around the globe next year, Australia law is not equipped to properly manage the risks that driverless vehicles pose to the everyday consumer. The introduction of 5G tech is set to improve data speeds and internet connections, enabling the proliferation of self-driving cars.
He added that while research and investment in driverless vehicles had been increasing exponentially over the last decade, Australia was only just now inviting submissions for possible national legislation.
“There is a lot to be done by governments and the private sector before people can be reassured as to the benefits of driverless vehicles,” said Mr Silvester.
“In Australia, governments across jurisdictions need to ensure consistency in the regulatory framework, as any uncertainty will likely stifle innovation and act as a disincentive to the introduction of automated vehicles in Australia.
“From an insurance perspective, a whole new business model needs to be considered if the driverless vehicle lives up to the promise of removing 90 per cent of collisions. Insurers need to contribute to the current government debate about regulation of automated vehicles with a balance between managing risk and encouraging innovation.”
![Emma Musgrave](https://res.cloudinary.com/momentum-media-group-pty-ltd/image/upload/v1666567443/Lawyers%20Weekly/emma-musgrave-author-image_cjyhtk.jpg)
Emma Musgrave
Emma Musgrave (née Ryan) is the managing editor, professional services at Momentum Media.
Emma has worked for Momentum Media since 2015, including five years spent as the editor of the company's legal brand - Lawyers Weekly. Throughout her time at Momentum, she has been responsible for breaking some of the biggest stories in corporate Australia. In addition, she has produced exclusive multimedia and event content related to the company's respective brands and audiences.
Prior to joining Momentum Media, Emma worked in breakfast radio, delivering news to the Central West region of NSW, before taking on a radio journalist role at Southern Cross Austereo, based in Townsville, North Queensland.
She holds a Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) degree from Charles Sturt University.
Email Emma on: