Our world changes and evolves every single day, so the idea of a vehicle that is able to drive completely on its own is no big surprise. Unfortunately, since humans are known for making thoughtless mistakes and causing problems, we need these cars on the road sooner, rather than later.

According to the TechCrunch Network, on Friday, September 23, one of Google’s self-driving vehicles, a Lexus RX 450h, was involved in a major traffic collusion in Mountain View, California. Oddly enough, it wasn’t the Lexus’ fault and it was actually hit by another car when the person ran a red light and smashed into their vehicle. While, luckily, no one was injured, this incident only emphasizes our need for these self-driving cars. In fact, Google has stated that “thousands of crashes happen everyday on U.S. roads” and that “human error plays a role in 94% of these crashes.”

These cars have been an ongoing project since 2009 and will not only save lives, but they will give lives back to those who are unable to see or are physically impaired. These cars have special software and sensors that are able to detect people on bikes, other vehicles and people walking, so they the car is able to safely avoid them. These self-driving cars also contain maps, so you know exactly where you are in the world at all times and back-up systems for things like braking or steering. These cars are currently on the streets of Mountain View, California; Austin, Texas; Kirkland Washington; and Metro Phoenix, AZ (Google Self-Driving Car Project).