New RoSPA report examines the future of driverless vehicles in the UK
RoSPA has published a new report on automated vehicles and the challenges and opportunities they bring for road safety and accessibility.
With small-scale driverless trials set to start in London in April 2026, now is the time to understand what automated vehicles can and cannot do, and how they will affect everyone on the road.
Automated vehicles, sometimes called self-driving cars, use sensors, software, and artificial intelligence to steer, brake, and navigate roads. They include robotaxis, passenger shuttles, and delivery vehicles. By removing human error, they could make roads safer, improve access to transport for people who cannot drive, make deliveries more efficient, and reduce emissions. But sharing space with human drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians also creates new challenges.
The role of government
The government sets the rules for safe deployment. This includes creating safety standards, monitoring performance, and ensuring services are accessible for everyone, including people with disabilities or those without smartphones. The 2026 pilot will driverless robotaxis in London, giving regulators and operators vital information before wider rollout.
The role of businesses
Companies designing and operating automated vehicles are responsible for keeping them safe, maintaining vehicles, and planning routes carefully. They also need to make services accessible, provide clear guidance on how vehicles work, and share safety information to support safe use.
The role of the public
Passengers and other road users play a key role. People need to understand what automated vehicles can and cannot do, follow instructions while using the service, and adapt to how driverless vehicles behave on the road. Education and experience during trials will help everyone interact safely.
Read RoSPA’s full report
Automated vehicles have the potential to make roads safer, more accessible, and more efficient. But technology alone is not enough. Success will depend on government, businesses, and the public working together, sharing knowledge, and learning from experience.
RoSPA’s report sets out the key issues, highlights the risks and opportunities, and explains how everyone can play their part in safe deployment. Read the full report to understand the future of automated vehicles and what it means for road safety in the UK.