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SB 2253

Traffic Safety - As enacted, establishes process regarding traffic violations committed by autonomous vehicles, including mailing the notice of violation or citation to the registered owner of the vehicle. - Amends TCA Title 55, Chapter 30 and Title 55, Chapter 8.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Mark Pody

Tennessee authorizes mailing traffic citations to registered owners of autonomous vehicles for traffic violations, establishing enforcement mechanisms for self-driving cars.

Pub. Ch. 726
#trafficsafety
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Bill Summary · SB 2253

Legislative bill overview

SB 2253 establishes the legal framework for how traffic violations committed by autonomous vehicles are processed and enforced in Tennessee. Specifically, it allows traffic citations to be mailed to the registered owner of an autonomous vehicle when the vehicle commits a violation, rather than requiring traditional ticketing methods.

Why is this important

As autonomous vehicle technology becomes more prevalent on public roads, states must clarify who is legally responsible for traffic violations and how enforcement will work. This bill addresses a practical gap: when a self-driving car runs a red light or speeds, traditional traffic enforcement (pulling over a driver) is impossible, so the law must provide an alternative mechanism to hold vehicle owners accountable.

Potential points of contention

  • Liability vs. ownership: Mailing citations to registered owners may unfairly penalize owners who don't control the vehicle's operations (e.g., fleet owners, leasing companies, or ride-sharing operators) rather than the entity actually programming or deploying the autonomous system
  • Due process concerns: Defendants may argue that mailed citations lack the same notice and opportunity-to-be-heard protections as traditional traffic stops, potentially creating constitutional challenges
  • Shared responsibility gap: The bill doesn't clarify whether manufacturers, software companies, or fleet operators bear legal responsibility alongside owners, creating potential loopholes in accountability

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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