Intelligent Management and Artificial Intelligence: Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities, Vol.2

Purpose: This article aims to evaluate autonomous vehicles based on artificial intelligence as a tool to influence road safety Need for the study: The large number of road accidents and their consequences make it necessary to look for new solutions to improve road safety. Autonomous vehicles using artificial intelligence in road traffic can be a valuable solution supporting road traffic management. Methodology: The article presents the benefits and risks associated with the implementation of autonomous vehicles as a road safety management tool. In the empirical layer, the resources of institutions and operators related to autonomous vehicles were used. The indicators of road incidents and disabled autonomous driving systems were presented in relation to the distance traveled (per 1 million km). Findings: Autonomous vehicles have not brought a breakthrough in the number of road incidents in the areas where they are tested, in relation to the distance traveled. Although there is an improvement, the indicator remains higher than the indicator of road incidents involving motor vehicles. It should be remembered, however, that autonomous vehicles in most cases do not generate collisions or accidents. The results for the second analyzed indicator – system deactivation – are ambiguous. Practical Implications: Road accidents rarely occur due to the fault of autonomous vehicles. However, the results concern a relatively small number of vehicles and the area of operation. Hence, it is worth conducting further research involving autonomous vehicles in the context of their safety. In addition, a reduction in passenger injuries in autonomous vehicles can be observed.