AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES BANNED IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

By Éric Descarries

According to a press release from the British Columbia government, as of April 5, 2024, the province’s Motor Vehicle Act prohibits the operation of all Level 3, 4 and 5 autonomous vehicles.

This means that it is forbidden to “drive” or operate a level 3, 4 or 5 autonomous vehicle, i.e., any vehicle capable of performing tasks without the intervention of a driver, such as driving, accelerating, braking and the ability to detect and avoid obstacles on public roads. Note that this restriction does not apply if the vehicle type in question is used for a pilot project approved by the Motor Vehicle Act or by future regulation. Level 1 and 2 vehicles with driving aids that enable lane changes or automatic braking assistance, as long as there is a driver at the wheel, are not covered.