--- description: Self driving buses are being tested out in Clearwater as part of initiatives that could revolutionize public transport. Find out what this means for you. title: Clearwater Beach to Test Out Driverless Buses | Fran Haasch Law --- Clearwater Beach to Test Out Driverless Buses | Fran Haasch Law # Clearwater Beach is Planning to Test Out Driverless Buses April 5, 2019 Attorney, Fran Haasch The Clearwater Beach City Council has begun working toward testing out driverless buses. Recently, the council agreed to write a letter voicing their support for the project, to be included with a federal grant application. The tests are supported in conjunction with the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority and Stantec, an engineering company. Supporters hope to receive funds from a $60 million grant that was approved in December of 2018, specifically for the purpose of testing and incorporating self-driving vehicles into American roads. If approved, Clearwater Beach would begin testing electric, 12-passenger autonomous buses to drive along a one-mile path on Mandalay Avenue. The tests would occur between October and January of 2019. As a safety measure, the buses will include a camera that constantly records rides. Clearwater Beach officials hope the initial testing period will work out some of the limitations and concerns that are currently present. For example, the bus can only reach a maximum speed of 12 miles per hour. Due to its electric power source, it cannot travel beyond the one-mile road without the need for recharging. The turning ability of the bus is also questionable; it is not able to navigate a roundabout. Safety is one of the biggest concerns involved in the adoption of this new technology. The [Tampa Bay Times](https://www.tampabay.com/clearwater/driverless-buses-on-clearwater-beach-maybe-sooner-than-you-think-20190415/) cited an incident in Las Vegas, in which a truck driver backed into a driverless bus. However, no injuries occurred and the bus was not found to be at fault. City officials hope this project will put Clearwater Beach at the forefront of the futuristic new technology of autonomous vehicles. Florida has supported bringing driverless cars to the state as well — the House State Affairs Committee recently approved a bill that, if passed, would legally allow the cars to drive on Florida’s roads without any humans present. **Contact The Fran Haasch Law Group to schedule a free evaluation of your [accident case](https://www.lawfran.com/). Call (727) 784-8191 24/7 or use our [contact form](https://www.lawfran.com/contact-us/) to get in touch.** [](https://www.lawfran.com/blog/2019/03/the-state-of-florida-is-now-ranked-1-in-pedestrian-deaths/) [](https://www.lawfran.com/blog/2019/05/what-is-motorcycle-bias-how-can-i-avoid-it/) Share the Post: ## Related Posts Why Is Pinellas County Becoming More Dangerous For Bicycles? Why Is Pinellas County Becoming a Dangerous Place For Bicycles? Pinellas County, known for its beautiful beaches, scenic trails, and Read More Riding a Bicycle In the Rain How Do I Stay Safe and Healthy When Riding a Bike In the Rain? Riding a bicycle is a versatile Read More Tips for Commuting To Work By Bicycle How Do I Stay Safe When Commuting To Work By Bicycle in Florida? Commuting to work by bicycle offers numerous Read More ## Contact Us Today (727) 784-8191 Our experienced attorneys are here to help you navigate your legal rights with confidence. NameThis field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.Name(Required) First Last Email Phone(Required)Are You a New Client?Are You a New Client?Yes, I am a potential new client.No, I am a current existing client.I'm neither.Case Details(Required)Communication Consent I consent to receive calls and emails from Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers, including via automated technology, AI-assisted systems, and prerecorded messages, regarding my inquiry and related legal services. Consent is not a condition of services. [Disclaimer](https://www.lawfran.com/disclaimer-and-terms-of-use/) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.lawfran.com/privacy-policy/)SMS/Text Message Consent I consent to receive text messages from Fran Haasch Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers at the phone number provided, including messages regarding my inquiry, case updates, and appointment reminders. Frequency may vary. Message & data rates may apply. Text HELP for assistance, reply STOP to opt out. Δ