AL SB311

Authorizes operation of vehicles equipped with automated driving systems (ADS) on Alabama public roads if the vehicle complies with all applicable traffic laws, safety standards, and federal motor vehicle safety standards.

Permits ADS-equipped vehicles to operate without a conventional human driver physically present if the vehicle is capable of achieving a minimal risk condition upon system failure.

Requires ADS-equipped vehicles to be registered and titled in Alabama and maintain proof of financial responsibility satisfying the Mandatory Liability Insurance Act requirements.

Establishes that ADS is the deemed driver or operator for traffic law compliance purposes and exempts vehicles without a driver from hit-and-run requirements if the owner/ADS promptly reports the accident to law enforcement.

Provides liability protections for original vehicle manufacturers when third parties convert vehicles to ADS, and exempts ADS-exclusive vehicles from equipment laws irrelevant to automated operation; becomes effective the first day of the third month following passage.