Abstract:
This independent study aims to study concepts, theories, and legal principles related to the use of autonomous cars, examine legal measures applicable to autonomous cars, and analyze problems in order to find solutions arising from compulsory insurance according to the Road Accident Victims Protection Act, B.E. 2535, amended No. 5, B.E. 2551, in applying to self-driving cars. From the results of the study, it was found that 4 relevant laws, namely the Car Accident Victims Protection Act, B.E. 2535, amended No. 5, B.E. 2551, the Car Act, B.E. 2522, the Land Traffic Act, B.E. 1979 and the Ministerial Regulations on Vehicle Parts and Equipment, B.E. 2551, mention only cars driven by drivers. For example, the criteria for compulsory car insurance, protected persons from road accidents, and the criteria for paying compensation to car accident victims, etc., do not include the case of compulsory car insurance for autonomous cars. Therefore, it does not cover compensation arising from accidents caused using autonomous cars. The author therefore suggests that the laws related to the definition of "car" should be amended, to be more comprehensive. Additionally, guidelines for compulsory insurance for autonomous cars, and the criteria for paying compensation to victims of accidents caused using autonomous cars should be established for the purpose of providing proper and fair protection to all stakeholders and being consistent with the context of changes in autonomous car technology.