Patent attributes
Methods and systems for monitoring use, determining risk, and pricing insurance policies for a vehicle having one or more autonomous or semi-autonomous operation features are provided. According to certain aspects, a computer-implemented method for operating an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle may be provided. With a vehicle owner's permission, a vehicle operator identity may be determined; and operating data regarding the autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle may be received from one or more vehicle-mounted sensors. Based upon the received operating data, (i) autonomous operation risk levels associated with autonomous vehicle operation; and (ii) operator risk levels associated with autonomous vehicle operation by the vehicle operator may be determined. Based upon a comparison of the autonomous operation versus vehicle operator risk levels, the autonomous features may be engaged if it is safer for the vehicle to travel autonomously. Insurance discounts may be provided to risk averse vehicle owners having this safety functionality.