Big news in the trucking industry: The California DMV just released the latest figures on autonomous vehicle testing.
From December 1, 2023, to November 30, 2024, vehicles with testing permits covered a total of 4,498,066 miles on public roads. But here's the thing: that's a huge drop from the previous year (2023), where over 9 million miles were reported.
Out of this total, 3,945,171 miles were driven with a safety driver on board, while 552,895 miles were in fully autonomous mode.
These numbers are part of the annual reports released by the CA DMV, which also tracks disengagements. These are the moments when a human driver had to take over due to technology issues or safety concerns.
Trucking Industry News: What Does This Mean for the Future?
Now, if you're following the trucking industry news, you probably know that the CA DMV tracks all kinds of data for these tests, including where and when disengagements happen.
But the reports are really meant to give us insight into each company's testing progress, not a side-by-side comparison. So, it’s not all about competition.
Interestingly, 20 companies with permits didn’t do any public road testing during this period, and nine companies have already pulled out of the program.
The rules for reporting are pretty strict, too. Only testing on public roads is required; anything on private or out-of-state roads doesn't count for reporting purposes.
As of now, 31 companies have permits to test with a safety driver, six can test driverless vehicles, while just three companies are authorized to start commercial use of autonomous tech.
Traffic Tickets: Why CDL Holders Should Consult a Traffic Attorney
If you hold a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and you've recently gotten a traffic ticket, you should consult a traffic attorney.
CDL holders face many more challenges when it comes to traffic tickets. Points add up faster, and penalties are harsher for CDL holders compared to regular drivers.
Commercial drivers are assessed 50% more negligent operator treatment system (NOTS) points than non-commercial drivers for the same violation.
They are assessed 1.5 NOTS points for a minor infraction or at-fault collision and three NOTS points for most serious violations like misdemeanors and felonies.
Hiring an attorney to handle traffic tickets is crucial because many drivers make mistakes about their traffic tickets that could make their situation worse.
Ignoring the ticket or just paying the fine is a huge mistake that can lead to points on your record or worse. Failure to appear in court is a misdemeanor in CA.
Plus, representing yourself in court might save you money upfront, but without proper legal knowledge, it could lead to an unfavorable outcome.
Protecting Your CDL and Your Career
For anyone in the trucking industry, keeping your CDL clean is crucial.
If you’re a commercial driver in CA and you’ve been ticketed, don’t wait to act.
With over 10 years of experience, the traffic attorneys at Bigger & Harman, APC, have successfully represented CDL holders in Roseville Courthouse in Placer County and can help you fight those traffic tickets.
Remember, your career depends on your CDL, so don’t leave it to chance.
Consult Bigger & Harman About Traffic Tickets in Roseville, CA
If you’re a commercial driver with a traffic ticket that needs resolution in Roseville Courthouse in Placer County, CA, act now. Call Bigger & Harman for an initial consultation at (661) 349-9300—Se habla Español 349-9755.
Email us at attorney@biggerharmanlaw.com, or use our convenient online contact form.
Download our e-book, Protecting Your Commercial Driver License.
References:
The CA DMV News Release, Over 4 Million Test Miles Logged by Autonomous Vehicle Permit Holders in California.
The DMV Portal CA Commercial Driver Handbook.