The world is one step closer to Skynet, thanks to California Governor Jerry Brown signing the autonomous vehicle bill, SB 1298, this week. California follows Nevada in helping along the Google-backed technology. So far the self-driving vehicles must have a human passenger along with them, but it is hoped that the vehicles will be able to drive on public streets within five years. According to Gov. Brown, even the California Highway Patrol supports the bill.

According to Google, the advantages of driverless vehicles are plenty and have the potential to solve some pressing transportation issues. For example, the 33,000 auto accident deaths in 2010 might have been eliminated had there not been a human element involved, and thus safer. (Sidenote: Only one driverless vehicle has been involved in a crash, and that was a fender bender caused by its human driver.)

Other advantages listed include transporting those who otherwise could not drive, like the disabled, old, young, and drunk. Self-driving vehicles could be chained together for more efficient use of highways; people could use the time to be more productive and work while in the vehicle (which makes one wonder if they're working on eliminating car sickness); parking might be more efficient, if the vehicles are used to pick up and drop off people, hence no need to park. When asked about who will get a ticket if one of these driverless vehicles runs a red light, a spokesperson said, "Self-driving cars do not run red lights."

However, Consumer Watchdog, a consumer rights group, worries Google will use it to gather personal information. That's just one of many questions that should be addressed prior to allowing Google to drive us around.

Until then, if you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a car accident caused by a human driver, please contact the Accident Lawyers Network to speak with an experienced auto accident attorney in your area today.