WisDOTs non-driver advisory committee considers impacts of automated vehicles

Stakeholders and transportation partners met with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) Thursday to continue discussions about emerging vehicle technologies. The Wisconsin Non-Driver Advisory Committee (WiNDAC)’s December meeting focused on the use of automated vehicles (AVs) for those who don’t drive in Wisconsin.

With feedback from transportation partners, WisDOT is currently developing a Connected and Automated Vehicle (CAV) stakeholders resource guide that will help communities consider what’s needed to implement CAV technology, including potential infrastructure upgrades, the impact on commercial transportation, and anticipated costs.

WiNDAC members discussed considerations for WisDOT to include in the guide that will help community leaders take into account the impact of AVs on the needs of non-driver populations.

Non-drivers in Wisconsin include aging adults, students, children, low-income individuals, people with disabilities and those who prefer not to drive. Non-drivers often face additional barriers to get where they need to go safely and efficiently.

“Non-drivers have a unique perspective to share on how to improve accessibility when companies develop new innovations. As communities across the state assess how to plan for CAV technologies, we must ensure we’re inclusive of the needs of all transportation users from the start,” WisDOT’s Division of Budget and Strategic Initiatives Administrator and WiNDAC co-chair Lea Collins-Worachek said.

AVs use cameras and sensors to perform some driving functions, such as steering and braking, to avoid crashes. Wisconsin state law requires an operator to be behind the wheel and in physical control of a vehicle at all times while driving on Wisconsin roadways, but AVs without drivers are in use in other states. WisDOT aims to provide resources to help communities prepare for the potential use of AVs in Wisconsin in the future.

WiNDAC members include advocacy groups, stakeholder transportation associations, mobility service providers, academia, state and local government, legislators and the Federal Highway Administration. Visit the WisDOT website to learn more about WiNDAC and WisDOT’s CAV program.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.