Know Before You Drive Act

Key Points

• This bill would stop car companies from using misleading names or ads that make 'partially' automated cars sound like they can drive themselves completely. Manufacturers would be banned from claiming a car has full self-driving powers if it still requires a human to stay alert and take over.
• When someone buys or leases a new car with these features, the dealer must provide a clear notice. This notice must explain exactly what the car can do, what it cannot do, and which parts of driving the human is still responsible for, such as watching for obstacles or responding to system failures.
• If a car company sends a software update that changes how the car's driving system works, they must notify the owner. This ensures drivers always know if their car's capabilities or safety limits have changed after they bought it.
• The government would add new labels to car windows, similar to fuel economy stickers. These labels would use plain language or icons to help shoppers easily compare the self-driving features and extra costs of different vehicles before they buy.
• The Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general would have the power to sue or fine companies that violate these rules. This is intended to prevent accidents caused by drivers who don't realize their car's technology has limits.