Human or Computer Error

Written for https://fivedotoh.com/2023/08/23/fandangos-provocative-question-228/

How would you feel about having autonomous (driverless) vehicles on the streets where you live? If they were available, would you feel comfortable taking one rather than an Uber, Lyft, or traditional taxicab with human drivers?

I would prefer my cab or taxi to have a driver. It’s not just the fact you are vulnerable on your own. If there were an accident, the car wouldn’t be able to take details. No doubt, in some parts of the world they are common place, but here in the UK I haven’t seen them on the roads.

As a woman we are vulnerable, even with a driver in a taxi. You don’t know who you can trust. What happens if a taxi turns up and it has been brought by a murderer? However, you can track most Ubers, so you are relatively safe. There is someone else in the car with you, if the taxi breaks down. I’m not saying we cannot be mechanics, but when you are not driving yourself home, it is the responsibility of the driver.

The world is getting crazy; sometimes a computer in my television will announce the next programme. Weird right? Perhaps I would have to go with someone else first, to see if it worked. Although, how would you pay? I would prefer a driver. Luckily it doesn’t affect my transport, as I can drive myself, or am in the car with my hubby.

Will I see this being normal? I think time doesn’t stop. If someone told us we would be having mobiles, like little computers, with apps to buy your shopping, or order from Amazon, or children as young as two on I pads, we would have said they wouldn’t be in general use.

It will happen, and is happening, but just not where I live.