Can I Get A Ticket For Using Self-Driving Technology In Bergen County?

Many believe that driverless vehicles are the way of the future. Across the country, many people are taking full advantage of this self-driving software. But what might happen if a police officer pulls you over while in Autopilot mode? Could you face a traffic ticket for simply using the software your car is equipped with? What is the legal status of self-driving technology? Could a Bergen County traffic ticket lawyer help you fight the consequences of driving on Autopilot?

Is Driving on Autopilot Mode Legal in New Jersey? 

Driving with fully autonomous self-driving software is not legal in New Jersey. Some motorists may be able to activate this software on the road, but only when carefully supervising the technology. To avoid a traffic ticket, you may want to keep your hands on the steering wheel and watch the road at all times. Even if you trust the software to keep you safe, you could face a traffic ticket if an officer catches you operating your vehicle without supervising the software.

For example, you might lean back in your chair with your hands off the steering wheel. This may be illegal in New Jersey. You might also become distracted by your phone, a meal, or a book while allowing the self-driving software to control your vehicle. This may also represent a traffic violation in New Jersey.

New Jersey Lawmakers Are Trying to Create a Legal Framework for Self-Driving Tech 

The truth is that there are no real laws against self-driving technology in New Jersey. The issue is that no legal framework exists for self-driving software, and lawmakers in the Garden State are trying to change this. A new bill could clarify the legal status of self-driving vehicles in New Jersey. Most importantly, this new set of laws may help motorists understand what might lead to a traffic ticket.

What Traffic Tickets Could I Face When Using Self-Driving Technology in New Jersey? 

You may face a charge of reckless driving if a police officer catches you driving in fully autonomous mode with little or no supervision. You might also face a charge for driving under the influence (DUI) if you activate Autopilot while intoxicated. Even though this might seem safer than manually controlling your vehicle while drunk, it is still against the law in New Jersey.

Contact a Bergen County Traffic Ticket Lawyer for Autopilot Infractions 

If you need to learn more about New Jersey laws regarding self-driving vehicles, consider speaking with an experienced traffic ticket lawyer in Bergen County. As self-driving technology becomes more common across the Garden State, these tickets could become more of an issue for average motorists. If you already face a ticket related to Autopilot mode, it may be possible to fight it. Speak with Phillip J. Murphy, Attorney at Law to learn more about your options.

Sources: 

nj.com/news/2025/07/waymo-robotaxis-are-driving-around-these-nj-cities-why-you-cant-use-them-yet.html

cbsnews.com/newyork/news/waymo-nyc-permit-self-driving-cars/

pub.njleg.gov/bills/2018/A2000/1853_I1.HTM