Legal Problems Regarding Compulsory Motor Insurance : Case Study of Self-Driving Vehicles

Abstract

          The objective of this research is to study the concepts, theories, and legal principles relating to the use of autonomous vehicles. It explores legal measures applicable to autonomous driving and analyzes the challenges associated with implementing these measures to propose the solutions for the issues arising from mandatory insurance coverage according to the Motor Vehicle Victims Protection Act B.E. 2535, as amended by the 5th Amendment B.E. 2551, concerning the protection of accident victims.

          The research result showed that the four laws, namely the Motor Vehicle Victims Protection Act B.E. 2535, as amended by the 5th Amendment B.E. 2551, the Vehicle Act B.E. 2522, the Land Traffic Act B.E. 2522, and the Ministry of Transport’s regulations on vehicle components and equipment of the Vehicle Act of B.E. 2551, specifically address vehicles with human drivers. This includes provisions such as compulsory motor vehicle insurance, protection for accident victims, and criteria for compensating those affected by accidents involving traditional vehicles. However, these laws do not encompass compulsory motor vehicle insurance for autonomous vehicles. Consequently, they do not cover compensation for users of autonomous vehicles affected by accidents arising from their use. It is suggested that the laws should be amended by defining the term “vehicle” to encompass a broader scope. Additionally, it is also recommended to provide guidelines for mandatory insurance coverage for autonomous vehicles, including the proportionate and fair criteria for compensating individuals affected by accidents arising from the use of autonomous vehicles to be consistent with the context of change in autonomous vehicle technology.