David Strickland, Partner at Venable LLP is going the AutoSens Detroit line-up this Spring to take on the “Regulatory landscape for autonomous driving and testing in the US.” We caught up with David to ask him a few questions ahead of this years event.
Tell us about your session at AutoSens 2018, why is legislative knowledge important for development of ADAS and Autonomous driving – most engineers only worry about natural laws!
I will be discussing the regulatory environment and activities at the federal level and the states that are shaping how and where these vehicles are tested and deployed. The legacy regulations on the books could impact how vehicles are designed and how they can be used, which are cornerstone considerations for AVs and their impact.
What legal challenges still remain in this field?
This answer is a book. FMVSS design limitations, state traffic laws with the consideration of there being a human driver, mandatory licensure even though at higher levels of automation there will not be a driver are just a few of many.
How is the education system adapting to prepare lawyers for this emerging field, and does any part of that concern you?
I really don’t think there is a needed adaptation in legal education. Regulatory law and technological impact and disruption are common happenings. The field evolves in case law, and the syllabi evolve with new fact patterns.
Can you tell us about your work with Safekids Worldwide?
As the National Board Chairman, I work to support an organization that is focused on eliminating accidental injuries and deaths of children, whether in the home (poisoning, drowning, etc.) to highway safety (child safety seats, pedestrian safety.)
Who should attend your session at AutoSens, and who are you hoping to see in particular?
Anyone who is interested in understanding how the regulatory and legal foundations can impact the development of automated vehicle technology.
AutoSens Detroit is coming back bigger and better this year, what are you looking forward to?
Meeting with thought leaders and designers about the promise of self driving.
Hear David Strickland on Day Two of the AutoSens Conference in Detroit (14-17 May), discussing the “Regulatory landscape for autonomous driving and testing in the US” – purchase your tickets here >>
