Chicago car accident lawyers to become obsolete? Automobiles to drive themselves in the near future?

Whether Illinois car crash attorneys will exist years down the road is starting to become a legitimate question. Recent advances in automotive technology are indicating that cars may drive themselves in the not so distant future. While there will still be accidents and injuries, they may occur much less frequently.

Google recently announced that, in an effort to reduce traffic collisions, they have developed the technology necessary for cars to drive themselves. They believe this will also free up people’s time and reduce carbon emissions.

Google states that as of October, 2010 its automated cars (occupied by trained drivers) have been in use in various parts of California and have been driven for over 140,000 miles. The vehicles use video cameras, radar sensors and lasers to navigate traffic. The system also uses detailed maps made possible by Google’s data centers.

The company says they have made safety its first goal in the program. The cars are always manned by a safety operator who can disengage cruise control at any time. They also have a computer software technician riding as a passenger to monitor the vehicle. As an extra precaution, Google also alerts police when operating the vehicle in any given area.

The World Health Organization estimates that more than 1.2 million people die each year in motor vehicle accidents. Google believes its new program has the potential to reduce that number in half. Further, the U.S. Dept. of Transportation estimates that the average person spends 52 minutes a day traveling to work. Google states that self driven vehicles will have the effect of giving that time back to commuters.

Google does not give an estimate as to when the program could become a reality for motorists. Due to the amount of lives lost in accidents and serious injuries incurred by countless others, hopefully they can push the program and make it available sooner rather than later.

In the meantime, until a future where everyone’s car is driving on its own, if you have been hurt in an Illinois auto accident, contact the Chicago personal injury lawyers at Abels & Annes for a free consultation. Call 312-924-7575 to speak directly to an attorney now.

Click here to read about other technology for vehicles that drive themselves as reported by CNN.