Impact of Connected and Automated Vehicles on Transport Injustices

Laura Martínez-Buelvas*, Andry Rakotonirainy, Deanna Grant-Smith, Oscar Oviedo-Trespalacios

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Conference proceedings/Edited volumeConference contributionScientificpeer-review

Abstract

Connected and automated vehicles (CAVs) are poised to transform the transport system. However, significant uncertainties remain about their impact, particularly regarding concerns that this advanced technology might exacerbate injustices, such as safety disparities for vulnerable road users (VRUs). Therefore, understanding the potential conflicts of this technology with societal values such as justice and safety is crucial for responsible implementation. To date, no research has focused on what safety and justice in transport mean in the context of CAV deployment and how the potential benefits of CAVs can be harnessed without exacerbating the existing vulnerabilities and injustices VRUs face. This paper addresses this gap by exploring car drivers' and pedestrians' perceptions of safety and justice issues that CAVs might exacerbate using an existing theoretical framework. Employing a qualitative approach, the study delves into the nuanced aspects of these concepts. Interviews were conducted with 30 participants (40% pedestrians) in Queensland, Australia, aged between 18 and 79. These interviews were recorded, transcribed, organised, and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged from the participants' discussions: (1) CAVs as a safety problem for VRUs, (2) CAVs as a justice problem for VRUs, and (3) CAVs as an alignment with societal values problem. Participants emphasised the safety challenges CAVs pose for VRUs, highlighting the need for thorough evaluation and regulatory oversight. Concerns were also raised about CAVs potentially marginalising vulnerable groups within society. Participants advocated for inclusive discussions and a justice-oriented approach to designing a comprehensive transport system to address these concerns.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings of the 35th IEEE Intelligent Vehicles Symposium, IV 2024
PublisherIEEE
Pages1609-1614
Number of pages6
ISBN (Electronic)9798350348811
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2024
Event35th IEEE Intelligent Vehicles Symposium, IV 2024 - Jeju Island, Korea, Republic of
Duration: 2 Jun 20245 Jun 2024

Publication series

NameIEEE Intelligent Vehicles Symposium, Proceedings
ISSN (Print)1931-0587
ISSN (Electronic)2642-7214

Conference

Conference35th IEEE Intelligent Vehicles Symposium, IV 2024
Country/TerritoryKorea, Republic of
CityJeju Island
Period2/06/245/06/24

Bibliographical note

Green Open Access added to TU Delft Institutional Repository 'You share, we take care!' - Taverne project https://www.openaccess.nl/en/you-share-we-take-care
Otherwise as indicated in the copyright section: the publisher is the copyright holder of this work and the author uses the Dutch legislation to make this work public.

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