Developing a Safety-Centric Framework for the Integration of Autonomous Vehicles in Local Jurisdictions

ONGOING |

Transportation Technologies:

Automated Vehicles, Vehicle Technologies

Impacts:

Safety

Problem Statement

The rapid advancement of autonomous vehicle (AV) technologies presents both unprecedented opportunities and significant safety challenges for local jurisdictions. Recent approvals by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for companies like Waymo to operate highly automated vehicle services in Los Angeles and San Francisco have ignited substantial public concern over safety and regulatory inconsistencies. This project proposes the development of a safety-centric, risk-based management framework to facilitate the at-scale integration of AVs into existing transportation systems while ensuring public safety is paramount. By engaging stakeholders, analyzing current policies, and collaborating with transportation authorities such as the San Francisco County Transportation Authority (SFCTA), we aim to establish clear performance metrics, risk tolerance levels, and deployment criteria. The framework will guide agencies in understanding and implementing the best safety management practices for AV integration, balancing innovation with public welfare. Outcomes will include comprehensive policy recommendations, refined safety performance metrics, and an enhanced AV safety framework tailored for local jurisdictions.

Outcomes & Deliverables

– AV Deployment Risk Modeling Framework
– Updated AV Deployment Safety Management Framework

Researchers


Technology Policy


Principal Transportation Planner

Jean Paul Velez
Mobility Innovations and Equity
San Francisco County Transportation Authority
Stanley E. Young
Team Lead
National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Jiaqi Ma
Associate Professor
UCLA
Ali Mosleh
Professor
UCLA