Maine has finalized new AV testing rules. The rules set forth the application process that must be followed by a company prior to testing AVs in Maine. The rules also cover reporting, test program operation, etc. The rules took effect April 1.
Per the new rules, AV testing applications shall include:
Testing/applicant information
Safety driver information
Vehicle information
A description of the pilot project (testing program)
A discussion of safety and risk mitigation measures
Insurance information
Data collection overview
Partnership information
Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by a special Commission that will be given 30 days to render a recommendation to an Executive Council that will be given 14 days to approve or deny the application.
Companies approved for testing will be required to submit annually a report to the state describing the ADS travel routes, difficulties encountered, etc. Reports on crashes are also required within 5 days of any incident.
Anyone with questions can contact Joyce Taylor of the Maine Department of Transportation at (207) 624-3000 or by email at Joyce.Taylor@Maine.gov.
A copy of the new rules are available here (see Chap. 800).