This week, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Administrator Jonathan Morrison sent a strong message to developers of driverless automated driving systems, warning that autonomous vehicles must be able to safely recognize and respond to emergency vehicles and first responders. The letter cites multiple incidents in which automated vehicles failed to react appropriately to flashing lights, traffic cones, emergency scenes, and first responders, calling the problem "unacceptable" and putting the industry on notice to address these safety concerns immediately.
The Motorcycle Riders Foundation (MRF) welcomes this proactive step. It demonstrates that NHTSA is willing to hold automated vehicle developers accountable before these technologies become more widespread on America's roads.
At the same time, the MRF continues to press for similar protections for motorcyclists. Just as automated driving systems must be able to safely interact with emergency vehicles, they must also reliably detect, recognize, and respond to motorcycles. Riders have long expressed concerns that automated vehicle technology may not consistently identify motorcycles in real-world traffic, creating unnecessary risks.
The MRF will continue working with Congress, NHTSA, and industry stakeholders to ensure that as automated driving technology advances, the safety of motorcyclists remains a top priority. Innovation should make our roads safer for everyone—including those who choose to ride.