How America's Transportation Department Blocked a Self-Driving Truck Company

Aurora Innovation, a pioneer in self-driving commercial trucks, faces a significant hurdle due to an obscure federal regulation. This rule mandates the placement of reflective warning cones and road flares when a truck breaks down. The current regulation requires specific signal placement within ten minutes of stopping. Aurora proposed a simpler solution: fixed warning beacons on the truck itself, activated upon disablement. They argued these beacons would be more visible and safer than traditional methods. However, the federal Department of Transportation denied Aurora's request for an exemption. Despite admitting no evidence suggested the beacons were less safe, the DOT is awaiting further study results. Consequently, Aurora is now suing the DOT to overturn this denial. This legal action highlights the tension between advancing autonomous technology and existing safety regulations.