Breakout Session #8: Autonomous Vehicles: Driving Employment for People with Disabilities

摘要

OEMs have created an aftermarket to address the physical accessibility of automobiles, including access for wheelchair users, those who use other mobility aids such as walkers, and those of short stature. (1) Discussed strategies that could work to address physical accessibility of AVs. AV accessibility will need to include people with sensory disabilities, including those who are blind or who have low vision, and those who are deaf or hard of hearing. (1) Discussed strategies that could work to address accessibility for those with sensory disabilities. One segment of the market for AVs is individuals with cognitive disabilities, such as people on the autism spectrum, traumatic brain injury, and people with intellectual disabilities such as Down Syndrome. (1) Discussed strategies that could work to address accessibility for people with cognitive disabilities. Although AV deployment initially focuses on urban areas, this technology shows strong potential to increase transportation access in rural areas. (1) Discussed strategies to ensure that people in urban, suburban, and rural areas can all benefit equitably from AV deployment. Federal and State Governments have begun to create policy regarding the development and deployment of AVs. (1) Discussed strategies that federal and state policymakers could employ to ensure AV accessibility that will result in improved access to employment for Americans with disabilities.