Goal

This project will develop a framework for emergency response for automated CMVs. Automated CMVs will vary in design and technology, so emergency responders will need to know how to interact safely and effectively with the different automated CMVs they encounter. Example scenarios include safely disabling an automated CMV or interacting with an automated CMV at a crash scene.

Summary

FMCSA continues to engage with its stakeholders on how automated CMVs may interact with emergency responders (e.g., law enforcement, first responders) and potentially affect public safety processes. As emergency responders seek guidance on how to interact with automated CMVs safely and effectively, FMCSA is interested in exploring this issue to identify opportunities for coordination.

The project approach includes:

• Initial Scan of Existing Practices and Literature: assess existing industry practices on emergency response interaction guides (mostly available for light duty ADS).
• Internal and External Stakeholder Engagement: meet with ADS industry, CVSA, IACP, AAMVA, AVSC, USFRA and other stakeholders to identify priority elements and needs for an emergency response framework. Coordinate with FHWA, NHTSA, ITS JPO, and other USDOT stakeholders to coordinate efforts and address multi-modal areas of interest.
• Develop Initial Framework: develop an initial framework potentially outlining best practices and processes related to automated CMVs and emergency response (within 12-18 months).
• Review and Revise Framework with Stakeholders: work with both internal and external stakeholders on reviewing the framework to revise and integrate inputs collected.
• Finalize Framework: Finalize framework and potentially explore options for standardization.
• Tech Transfer: Identify the appropriate stakeholder group(s) to implement, operate, and maintain the framework, best practices, and procedures.

Impacts

A national framework would support consistency and standardization related to emergency response protocols and interactions with automated CMVs.