The challenges that autonomous vehicles pose to the civil liability of the producer

Abstract

In today's world it is almost impossible to keep abreast of technological and scientific development, the repercussions of which have been felt not only on the global economy but also in our daily lives. Accordingly, since the arrival of one of the most promising scientific advantages of this century - Artificial Intelligence -, several industrial sectors, namely the automobile industry, have been developing to an immeasurable rhythm. In this way, the socalled Autonomous Vehicles will soon be part of our daily lives, thus becoming preeminent for the Law to anticipate issues that may arise in the future, such as the potential civil liability of the producer of Autonomous Vehicles. Hence, this dissertation will address the suitability of the 33-year-old European Directive on producer liability in light of the challenges posed by Autonomous Vehicles. Then, based on a careful and critical analysis, it will point out the necessary changes to be performed within such legal framework