\u201cWhether or not he [Jacob Brown] had a full understanding of the \u2018Autopilot\u2019 system’s limitations is a considerable question. <\/span><\/p>

If Tesla’s \u2018Autopilot\u2019 were labelled something less promising like \u2018Speedminder,\u2019 or \u2018PaceTronic\u2019 would Jacob Brown be alive today?\u201d <\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>

Though that sentiment may strike some as alarmist, it aptly points out our collective lack of knowledge regarding self-driving vehicles.<\/span><\/p>

Standard driving terminology is a part of the overall vernacular used each and every day. <\/span><\/p>

Drivers know the difference between \u201cbraking\u201d and \u201caccelerating,\u201d but that same knowledge base isn\u2019t necessarily a given for those driving with an autonomous system onboard. <\/span><\/p>

There is currently no standard language used for the features and functionality of autonomous vehicles, which can only lead to problems both on the road and \u2014 potentially \u2014 in the statehouse.<\/span><\/p>

It\u2019s safe to say that the general public isn\u2019t familiar with the five levels of autonomous vehicles, for example. <\/span><\/p>

This means that car buyers have a limited grasp of the technology they drive off the lot. If those people who buy regular cars are any indication, most autonomous vehicle owners likely don\u2019t take the time to thoroughly read the vehicle owner\u2019s manual to learn every nuance and detail. <\/span><\/p>

Additionally, the Department of Motor Vehicles isn\u2019t testing drivers on their understanding of autonomous vehicles, meaning a driver\u2019s license does not necessarily indicate a thorough understanding of the technology. <\/span><\/p>

Basically, there is not currently a method for gauging a driver\u2019s comprehension of autonomous vehicles, even if they have purchased one of these cars already. That\u2019s just one potential shortfall of an industry that\u2019s not focused on instilling in its customers a working knowledge of the vehicles they drive.<\/span><\/p>

Ultimately, the burden lies with manufacturers. <\/span><\/p>

These companies have to make it as clear as possible to consumers what every piece of autonomous technology does so these vehicles are properly operated. <\/span><\/p>

While an \u201cAutopilot\u201d functionality might have a cool ring to it, a driver might not be fully aware of the extent of this feature and could end up hurting himself and others, as we saw in the Jacob Brown\u2019s tragic case. Truly, there must be a universal and accurate vocabulary adopted for autonomous technology. <\/span><\/p>

Terminology used in a Tesla autonomous system needs to be the same as the terminology used in a Ford autonomous car so drivers are fully aware of what they are doing behind the wheel. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>

However, consumers have to shoulder some of the responsibility. Operating an autonomous vehicle without the knowledge of what each and every feature means for the driver can only lead to more accidents, injuries, and fatalities. <\/span><\/p>

It\u2019s critical to understand that autonomous technology does not mean it\u2019s permissible to watch a YouTube video, respond to text messages, or engage in any other distracting activity while you\u2019re in the driver\u2019s seat. Quite simply, autonomous vehicles do not replace responsible drivers. <\/span><\/p>

As governing entities and auto conglomerates align their understanding of autonomous vehicles, a new standardized vocabulary for this technology must be adopted across the board. <\/span><\/p>

Of course, there are numerous aspects to autonomous vehicles that need to be further developed and regulated. However, as Resnick points out, the terminology is a crucial component to this new technology, and \u201cthe words matter.\u201d <\/span><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"