The idea of a driverless car might seem like it’s out of a science fiction novel. However, companies like the Waymo project (used to be called the Google self-driving car) are already testing its fleet of self-driving technology throughout the United States. Self-driving (or autonomous cars) are unmanned ground vehicles capable of sensing the surrounding environment and navigating without the control of a human driver. Even though autonomous cars are being tested currently in the states of Arizona, Texas, and California, you won’t be able to buy one until 2022.

So if you see a driverless car being tested on the road, don’t panic.

1. Autonomous vehicle types and categories

Driverless cars fall under 2 categories and 5 various levels, according to how they’re automated. For instance, certain vehicles are fully automated and equipped fully with software and sensors that can comprehend their surroundings as well as nearby construction, pedestrians, cyclists, vehicles, etc. from a distance of 2 football fields.

2. They reduce traffic collisions
Did you know that an estimated 90-percent of auto collisions are due to human mistakes on the roads? The aim is for driverless cars to remove the human element, reducing road accidents and deaths by roughly 300,000.

3. Weatherproofing
There are still improvements to be made on self-driving cars as vehicles are being road tested. For instance, variances in weather, especially dangerous rain, snow, and even hail, are concerns that must be developed for cars driving in certain climates.

4. Sit back and relax

Your self driving car will do everything for you, including the ability to self-steer, self-break, back-up, and even self-park your vehicle. It’s kind of like your vehicle is using cruise control, but your hands don’t need to be on the wheel. Some self-driving cars are even able to sense emergency vehicles in the vicinity and will pull over to allow them to pass.