I think people would be much more inclined to trust self driving tech in these scenarios than in congested traffic with complex intersections and people unexpectedly darting this way and that with little to no warning.
As a guide to midwesteners, it might help to think of them as any other consumer who is driven by economics and convenience when it comes to car purchases.
How do you convince the valley to use self driving tech? Maybe start with putting beds in the back seats since they can't afford exorbitant housing prices.
Outside the Bay, Ann Arbor & Detroit are the leading cities conducting research on autonomous vehicles thanks to the University of Michigan and the motor industry.
Besides most people have 45 min commutes. If your car came preheated each morning and drove you to work while you take a nap, then people would love it.