Data warning issued as Automated Vehicles Bill passes through Parliament

The ABI has praised the passing of the Automated Vehicles Bill in Parliament – but warned that insurers will need access to relevant data for them to support the adoption of such technology.

The text of the bill has been agreed by both the House of Lords and House of Commons, meaning it is now awaiting royal assent for it to become law.

Essentially, the bill has been designed to provide the private sector with the certainty and confidence it needs to research and develop the technology for self-driving cars.

Jonathan Fong, ABI manager for general insurance policy, said the bill represented a “significant step forward” and that insurers have been supporting the development of automated technology.

However, he said more answers were needed over cyber security fears, as well as how insurers can get access to data.

“UK motor insurers have long been supporting the development of automated vehicles, including by actively insuring trials to allow the technology to evolve, and by supporting the creation and progress of this bill at every step of the journey,” Fong said.

“While this bill represents a significant step forward, further consideration is needed to address concerns around safety and cyber security.

“It’s critical that insurers have access to relevant data in order to support the adoption of this technology.”

Clarity

Data is important when it comes to this technology, as it will help insurers and police determine where liability lies in the event of a crash for example.

The government clarified that non-driving responsibilities will still remain with that person, such as maintaining appropriate insurance and ensuring proper loading.

However, when a vehicle is driving itself, a company rather than an individual will be responsible for the way it drives.

The ABI said collaboration with the government would continue over questions such as data access so insurers had a clearer picture when supporting the adoption of the technology.

“We look forward to continuing to engage with government and other stakeholders on these issues so that we can all fully harness the exciting opportunities automated vehicles present,” Fong said.