Cars and Global Warming: 5 Ways Self-Driving Cars Could Be Worse for the Environment

Self-driving cars could potentially be a part of the future soon. They might be available to many people in as little as three to five years. The improved fuel efficiency and safety could have remarkable results on the effects of global warming.

Many people look at the positive effects because self-driving cars would ultimately lead to smoother traffic and maybe fewer vehicles on the road. However, as with every advanced technology, there is a negative side.

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Here are five ways self-driving cars could be worse for the environment:

1. More people will be able to use the cars. People who can't drive now will be able to get behind the wheel, so to speak. This will include people under age 16, the elderly, the disabled, people intoxicated or on medication, or even people sleeping. With more people able to operate the vehicle, there might actually be more cars on the road, reports Vox.

2. Self-driving cars could increase the possibilities of malfunctioning vehicles. Computer glitches could occur or laser and GPS systems could fall into sudden disrepair. Occupants might have limited experience at driving, unable to take the controls during emergency situations, reports Business Insider. Cars could crash into buildings, trees or other vehicles. Damage to roadways, structures and cars would have a far-reaching environmental impact.

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3. Legal challenges could skyrocket from car accidents. Questions would arise as to who is at fault when pedestrians and cyclists move into a car's path. Weather and road conditions would have to be considered in many cases, but is the occupant of the vehicle to face all or some of the blame? The manufacturing of self-driving cars could change as a result, affecting the environment and even global warming.

4. The economy and environment could suffer by the wide use of self-driving cars, according to Quora. Mass transportation industries could diminish because of the convenience of taking trips in your own private transportation. Many people might prefer their own driverless cars or those supplied by services to buses or trains. Commuting would become painless, so populations in cities would dwindle. Businesses in the cities would suffer.

5. Privacy matters are also a concern. Computers needed to make the self-driving cars work would need to amass a huge amount of information, including data on the occupant. More agencies will know where you went and how long you stayed.

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