Apple’s Vision Pro Raises Concerns About Safe Driving
By Yang Qian
Apple’s recent release of Vision Pro has sparked concerns about safe driving, as many foreign netizens are seen wearing Vision Pro while operating a Tesla with Autopilot mode turned on. Lawyer Shanghai Shenlun Xia Hailong has voiced his belief that this behavior is more likely to be enforced by traffic police.
According to Lawyer Xia Hailong, using the automatic driving function is considered the responsibility of the driver, and they must bear the consequences in case of a violation or accident. Furthermore, it is difficult for traffic police to judge whether wearing Vision Pro will hinder safe driving, especially as the glasses have a function that can be turned on, making it challenging to determine the driver’s actual intention.
Ultimately, the use of Vision Pro while driving is considered a dangerous behavior that may distract the driver, increasing the risk of traffic accidents. Even when the vehicle is in self-driving mode, the driver is still expected to remain alert and ready to take control if necessary.
As a result, drivers are advised against using Vision Pro or similar devices while operating a vehicle. Lawyer Wang Liangliang of Hechang Law Firm added that most states in the United States do not allow texting or using mobile phones while driving, with the core of traffic regulations aiming to prohibit behaviors that impede safe driving.
In China, the use of electronic devices while driving is prohibited, as stated in Article 62 of the “Regulations for the Implementation of the Road Traffic Safety Law of the People’s Republic of China.” This includes behaviors such as making or answering handheld phones and watching TV. The Ministry of Public Security’s “Guiding Opinions on the Identification and Handling of Road Traffic Illegal Activities” also points out that operating a mobile phone in a handheld manner or sending and receiving text messages while driving is considered illegal conduct.
Moreover, the upcoming implementation of Article 11 of the Measures for the Administration of Points for Road Traffic Safety Violations (Ministry of Public Security Order No. 163) on April 1, 2022, will increase the points for this type of illegal behavior to 3 points at a time.
Considering the legal and safety implications, it is imperative for drivers to adhere to the regulations and refrain from using Vision Pro or similar devices while driving. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for individuals to prioritize safety and responsible driving practices.