Random thoughts. I'm actually pretty optimistic about AVs as far as comfort for other people on the roads, especially cycling.
*If* we get to a point where I feel at least as much trust that the robot will see me as the average driver - and building this trust is probably easier than people imagine - I can cycle without worrying about abuse, harassment and unsafe passing from drivers who are irrationally upset by the presence of cyclists. Robots will have no such feelings :)
@colby yes I'm assuming they're going to be programmed to a higher standard than human drivers. Of course it's a big assumption. But isn't that the whole selling point for those who want them - that they will be safer than human drivers?