The UK "Locomotive Act" of 1865 required automobiles to carry a crew of three, one of which should walk in front of the automobile carrying a red flag. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Locomotive_Acts

The law was supported by people with interests in the railway and horse-and-carriage industries. It took about 30 years, until 1896, before most of the restrictions were lifted.

I'm pretty sure automated vehicles will become standard at some point, but I expect it will take a few decades before we get there: For the technology to mature, for public opinion to accept the idea and for parties protecting other interests to give up the fight.