  Connected and automated vehicles are poised to transform the transport
system. However, significant uncertainties remain about their impact,
particularly regarding concerns that this advanced technology might exacerbate
injustices, such as safety disparities for vulnerable road users. Therefore,
understanding the potential conflicts of this technology with societal values
such as justice and safety is crucial for responsible implementation. To date,
no research has focused on what safety and justice in transport mean in the
context of CAV deployment and how the potential benefits of CAVs can be
harnessed without exacerbating the existing vulnerabilities and injustices VRUs
face. This paper addresses this gap by exploring car drivers' and pedestrians'
perceptions of safety and justice issues that CAVs might exacerbate using an
existing theoretical framework. Employing a qualitative approach, the study
delves into the nuanced aspects of these concepts. Interviews were conducted
with 30 participants aged between 18 and 79 in Queensland, Australia. These
interviews were recorded, transcribed, organised, and analysed using reflexive
thematic analysis. Three main themes emerged from the participants'
discussions: CAVs as a safety problem for VRUs, CAVs as a justice problem for
VRUs, and CAVs as an alignment with societal values problem. Participants
emphasised the safety challenges CAVs pose for VRUs, highlighting the need for
thorough evaluation and regulatory oversight. Concerns were also raised about
CAVs potentially marginalising vulnerable groups within society. Participants
advocated for inclusive discussions and a justice-oriented approach to
designing a comprehensive transport system to address these concerns.
