This process slowly adds to the complexities faced by first responders who must interact with all types of vehicles in the performance of their duties. When a motor vehicle crash occurs, first responders bravely jump into action, extricating vehicle occupants, administering lifesaving first aid, directing traffic, investigating the cause, clearing the scene and much more. But the police, firefighters, emergency medical technicians and public safety responders that crash victims rely on face new and unique hazards as more vehicles take to U.S. roads that have vehicle automation and driver assistance features.

The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) released a new report that examines how law enforcement officials and other first responders as well as crash scene investigators can better prepare for automated vehicle technology by highlighting curriculum recommendations to improve training on rapidly changing safety protocols. The report – Law Enforcement, First Responder and Crash Investigation Preparation for Automated Vehicle Technology – was produced by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) and made possible by a grant from State Farm^®.

Experts addressed these topics at a May 8, Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA)/State Farm® meeting. They represented government, the auto and tech industries, law enforcement, safety, and insurance.

The leaders agreed to use a common language when talking about AV features. Also, focus on driver responsibilities and attitudes is key to preparing motorists to safely share roads with AVs. Moving forward the group will:

• Develop consistent public safety messages about all forms of vehicle automation.

• Maintain focus on current traffic safety challenges. These include impaired driving, speeding, failure to buckle up, distracted driving and sharing the road with pedestrians.

• Create uniform policies and training for responding to and investigating AV crashes. This will be key for police, first responders and court officials.

“While AVs will change our lives in many ways, they raise important highway safety issues,” said Ryan Gammelgard, Counsel at State Farm. “This report is a key piece to helping make sure we all work together to ensure the technology works as advertised.”