At Davis & Hoss, PC, we understand that advancements in automotive technology bring both opportunities and challenges. As self-driving and semi-autonomous vehicles become more common, questions about DUI laws and their applicability to these vehicles are growing. If you are facing DUI charges related to a self-driving car, it is important to understand how Tennessee law applies to your situation and how we can help protect your rights.
How Tennessee Defines DUI in the Age of Self-Driving Cars
Tennessee DUI laws have traditionally focused on individuals operating motor vehicles while impaired. However, the rise of self-driving technology has introduced complexities in determining liability. As of 2025, Tennessee’s legal framework still places primary responsibility on the driver, even if a vehicle is capable of autonomous operation. This means that if you are found in a self-driving or semi-autonomous vehicle while impaired, you could still face DUI charges under existing statutes.
While fully autonomous vehicles are becoming more common in testing environments, current regulations still require a human operator to remain in control or be ready to take over if needed. This legal ambiguity means that law enforcement may apply traditional DUI laws even when a vehicle is in self-driving mode. Additionally, DUI laws are written in a way that focuses on the impairment of a driver, rather than the level of automation of the vehicle.
Autonomous Vehicles and Legal Gray Areas
Self-driving technology is evolving, but the law has been slower to adapt. While Tennessee has made strides in addressing automated vehicle operation through legislation like the Automated Vehicles Act, questions remain about what constitutes “operation” when a car is driving itself.
Some legal debates center around Tennessee automated driving system legislation and whether a driver actively needs to be in control of the vehicle for a DUI charge to apply. However, current interpretations lean toward holding individuals responsible, even in semi-autonomous vehicles like Tesla’s Autopilot or GM’s Super Cruise.
Another consideration is how DUI laws will apply when driverless ride-hailing services become widely available. If an individual is impaired while sitting in an autonomous vehicle but not actively operating it, would they still be subject to DUI laws? As of now, Tennessee law does not provide a clear answer, but precedent suggests that authorities will continue to hold individuals accountable.
Additionally, the law does not currently make exceptions for impaired individuals who engage a fully autonomous system to drive them home safely. In some states, challenges have been made regarding whether an impaired person in the driver’s seat of a parked autonomous car should be charged with DUI.
Tennessee’s Approach to Self-Driving DUI Cases
- DUI Implications for Semi-Autonomous Vehicles in Tennessee: The law does not yet fully distinguish between different levels of vehicle automation. If you are sitting in the driver’s seat with the vehicle engaged, you may still be considered “in control” under Tennessee DUI laws 2025.
- Legal Status of Driverless Cars in Tennessee 2025: While fully autonomous vehicles are being tested nationwide, most states, including Tennessee, require a licensed driver to be present.
- Tennessee Senate Bill 310 Driverless Vehicle Ban: Recent legislative efforts have sought to clarify DUI laws in relation to driverless cars, but as of now, DUI charges remain applicable if a person is found impaired in a moving vehicle.
Despite these uncertainties, one thing is clear—if an individual is impaired and involved in an incident while inside a self-driving car, they could still face severe legal consequences.
Potential Defenses in a Self-Driving Car DUI Case
At Davis & Hoss, PC, we explore all possible defense strategies to protect our clients. If you have been charged with DUI while using a self-driving car, we may consider the following defenses:
- Lack of Control: If your vehicle was operating in full-autonomous mode without any human input, we may argue that you were not legally “operating” the vehicle under Tennessee DUI statutes.
- Improper Traffic Stop: Law enforcement officers must have reasonable suspicion to stop a vehicle. If your self-driving car was obeying traffic laws, we may challenge the validity of the stop.
- Faulty Test Results: DUI cases often rely on breathalyzer or blood test results. If testing procedures were not followed correctly, these results may be inadmissible.
- Unclear Legal Precedents: Since self-driving technology is still new, we may challenge the prosecution’s interpretation of existing DUI laws.
- Vehicle Autonomy as a Defense: Some cases may argue that the vehicle, rather than the driver, was in full control, making the concept of “impairment” irrelevant.
How DUI Charges Can Impact Your Future
A DUI conviction, whether in a traditional vehicle or a self-driving car, can have serious consequences, including:
- License Suspension: DUI convictions often result in driver’s license suspensions, making it difficult to commute or travel for work.
- Employment Issues: Many employers conduct background checks, and a DUI conviction can impact job opportunities, particularly for those in professional or commercial driving roles.
- Higher Insurance Rates: A DUI conviction can lead to significantly increased auto insurance premiums.
- Criminal Record: A DUI can result in a permanent criminal record, which may affect future legal matters and personal opportunities.
How Davis & Hoss, PC Can Help
Facing DUI charges related to a self-driving car can be confusing and stressful. Our experienced attorneys are well-versed in autonomous vehicle DUI regulations and the latest legal developments affecting these cases. Here’s how we can help:
- Case Evaluation: We analyze the specifics of your situation, including the level of vehicle automation and how it relates to Tennessee law.
- Legal Defense Strategies: Depending on the circumstances, we may argue that you were not “operating” the vehicle in the traditional sense, challenging the prosecution’s case.
- Keeping Up with the Law: As self-driving technology advances, laws will continue to evolve. We stay at the forefront of these changes to ensure the best possible defense for our clients.
- Negotiating with Prosecutors: In some cases, we may negotiate for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs.
- Court Representation: If your case goes to trial, we provide strong representation to present the best possible defense.
Future of DUI Laws and Self-Driving Cars in Tennessee
As technology progresses, we anticipate that Tennessee lawmakers will refine DUI laws to address the role of automation in vehicle operation. Legal debates will likely continue over whether a driver is truly “in control” when self-driving features are engaged.
Future updates may include:
- Clarification on liability in self-driving DUI cases
- New legislation distinguishing between levels of automation
- Introduction of exemptions for fully autonomous vehicles
- Updated insurance policies for self-driving car incidents
- Greater reliance on vehicle data to determine liability in DUI cases
Regardless of how the law evolves, one thing remains certain—being accused of DUI is a serious matter that requires skilled legal defense.
Contact Us for Expert DUI Defense
If you are facing DUI charges involving a self-driving or semi-autonomous vehicle, you need a legal team that understands both technology and the law. At Davis & Hoss, PC, we provide strategic, compassionate, and knowledgeable representation to help you navigate these complex legal matters. Contact us today for a confidential consultation and let us guide you toward the best possible outcome.