Liability Risks Of Automation And Connectivity In A Technologically Advanced World

1 Introduction

Advancements in technology and automation have led to an increasingly safer, convenient, and connected world. A few areas greatly impacted by these new technologies are autonomous vehicles, manufacturing, and the Internet of Things. While these advancements offer numerous benefits, they also can expose manufacturers, distributors, and insurers to new and potentially greater product liability risks. This article will discuss these advancements and the potential legal exposures they create.

2 Autonomous Motor Vehicles

The most prominent example of increased automation, and the one most likely to have the biggest effect on society, is the incorporation of increasing levels of automation in motor vehicles. Motor vehicles have become safer since their invention in the early 20th century. Seat belts, airbags, mirrors, indicator lights, anti-lock brakes, children's car seats, Bluetooth, power steering, and other features are taken for granted now, but