Czechia Is Getting Ready for Driverless Cars

Starting in 2026, the Czech Republic will implement a ‘conditional automation’ system, allowing drivers to use autopilot in certain situations, while still requiring them to be ready to take control if necessary.

This milestone aligns with the European Union’s push to modernize road traffic laws to accommodate autonomous vehicles.

“Autonomous driving is a major trend in the automotive industry,” said Transport Minister Martin Kupka (ODS), emphasizing the need for updates to current legislation.

The upcoming amendment will introduce “Level 3” autonomous systems, enabling vehicles to take over driving tasks on designated sections of highways, but with the requirement that drivers remain prepared to resume control.

Conditional Automation: What Drivers Need to Know

Under the new system, drivers can temporarily relinquish control to the autopilot on pre-approved stretches of road. However, they must take over when prompted. If a driver fails to act within 10 seconds, the vehicle will initiate a “minimal risk maneuver,” pulling over to stop safely.

Liability during autonomous driving depends on the situation:

• If the car operates independently and causes an accident, the manufacturer is liable.
• If the system requests driver intervention and the driver fails to respond, the driver assumes responsibility.

Authorities will assess fault using onboard data, including monitoring footage from inside the vehicle.

Despite automation, traditional rules will apply to all drivers, such as holding a valid driver’s license and adhering to bans on alcohol and drug use.

Autonomous Driving Sections: Where Will It Be Allowed?

Initially, autonomous driving will be permitted on multi-lane highways and roads with physical dividers between traffic directions.

Minister Kupka aims for widespread implementation across Czech highways. However, manufacturers will determine specific routes based on safety assessments, gradually expanding these sections as software updates improve system capabilities.

Safety remains a key driver behind the legislation. According to BESIP data, human error accounts for 60% of traffic accidents. Automated systems aim to reduce this number significantly.

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