Relates to control of steering mechanism

Title of bill

An act to amend the vehicle and traffic law, in relation to control of steering mechanism

Purpose

This bill will allow New Yorkers with motor vehicles that have driving technology that is engaged to perform the steering function to operate the motor vehicle without having at least one had on the steering mechanism.

Summary provisions

Section 1 is amended to add the following unless driving technology is engaged to perform the steering function.

Section 2 this act shall take effect immediately

Justification

With the present growth of autonomous technology that will allow motor vehicles to safely operate. We must address the issue of keeping at least one hand on the steering mechanism at all time when in motion. This new technology requires the driver to remove both hands from the steering mechanism for safe operation. One current example is the automatic parking option with in many vehicles that parks the car safely without the assistance of the driver. Similar technologies are close to coming to the market that will take over other functions and there are companies that are working toward the development of a fully autonomous vehicle. More importantly this will allow drivers to legally operate their vehicles equipped this technology.

Prior legislative history

New Bill

Fiscal implications

None

Effective date

Immediately.