Trucking news and briefs for Thursday, March 30, 2023:
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves this week signed HB 1003, establishing a legal framework for autonomous vehicles to test and deploy in the state.
H.B. 1003 defines “fully autonomous vehicle” as a motor vehicle equipped with an automated driving system designed to function without a human driver (SAE Level 4 or Level 5).
"The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association (AVIA) applauds Governor Tate Reeves for signing HB 1003 and officially opening Mississippi to the safety, mobility and economic benefits of autonomous vehicles (AVs)," said Executive Director Jeff Farrah. "Mississippi now joins 22 other states that have unlocked the technology, safety, and supply chain benefits of autonomous vehicles."
A recent report compiled by insurance comparison marketplace QuoteWizard's found that roads and bridges in poor condition cost drivers an average of $556 annually. Nationwide, nearly 20% of America's roads and 5% of bridges are currently in unacceptable conditions but Rhode Island, with 48% of its roads in non-acceptable condition, leads the way. Virginia is a close second at 31%.
"Poor roads and bridges are a huge cost. They cost people time, they cost people money and they can contribute to crashes. We found that the more states reinvest in their roads, the better road conditions are and the less drivers pay in the long run," said Nick VinZant, QuoteWizard senior research analyst.
QuoteWizard analyzed data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics on the percentage of non-acceptable roads and square miles of poor bridge deck. Nationwide, 19% of roads are in non-acceptable condition and 5% of bridges are in poor condition, the report found. Georgia, Alabama, and Florida have the best road infrastructure, according to the report.
