As self-driving cars become more prevalent, questions about liability, legal rights, and compensation are increasingly important. Unlike traditional accidents, where negligence is usually assigned to one of two drivers, self-driving vehicle crashes can have multiple liable parties.
It’s in your best interest to know the types of self-driving cars, why accidents happen, and whom you can sue when injured in a collision. This blog explores the critical issues surrounding self-driving car accidents to help victims understand their rights and options for pursuing compensation.
Understanding Self-Driving Cars
Self-driving cars, also known as autonomous or driverless cars, are vehicles that can navigate roads and operate without human intervention. Vehicles can be categorized into six levels of automation, ranging from level 0, which has no automation capabilities, to level 5. Level 1 and 2 cars require driver control but may have some assistive technology that helps to maintain speed or steering.
Level 3 vehicles feature conditional automation, enabling the car to handle driving tasks under specific circumstances. Drivers of level 1-3 vehicles must stay alert and be ready to take control at a moment’s notice. Level 4 cars can perform all necessary driving functions within specific conditions and areas.
Level 5 represents full vehicle autonomy on any road, in all conditions, with no driver intervention. Most cars on the road today fall within levels 0 to 2, with levels 3 and above reserved for highly advanced, rare vehicles. Level 3 and 4 self-driving cars are slowly becoming more common in large, trendy cities like New York and San Francisco.
Common Causes of Self-Driving Car Crashes
Self-driving car crashes typically result from either technological failures, human error, or a combination of the two. Common causes of autonomous vehicle accidents include sensor malfunctions, cameras failing to detect obstacles, software glitches, and navigation errors.
Complex intersections and unmarked crosswalks can challenge the AI’s ability to recognize pedestrians and other cars and respond appropriately. Environmental factors, such as rain, snow, and fog, can interfere with sensors and cameras, making it difficult for AI to perceive what’s happening around it.
Temporary road changes, like construction and road closures, can cause processing errors because autonomous vehicles rely heavily on GPS data for navigation. When the planned route changes unexpectedly, it can lead to mistakes that may cause serious accidents.
Communication failures between the vehicle and the relevant server can prevent the transfer of vital information. When software is not updated regularly or sensors are not cleaned often enough, it can lead to system errors and collisions.
Human error is one of the most common causes of self-driving vehicle accidents, as drivers are more likely to look out the windows, use their phones, or daydream when their car’s AI is in control. Being distracted from the road can lead to delayed reactions in emergencies and a failure to notice vehicle errors.
Who Is Liable for a Self-Driving Car Crash?
Liability in self-driving car accidents becomes more complex as the level of automation increases. Multiple parties can be held liable for self-driving car crashes, depending on the circumstances. While human drivers are typically held responsible if they fail to take control, responsibility is shifting toward manufacturers as automation becomes more advanced.
Manufacturers can be held liable when hardware or software malfunctions, inadequate testing, or insufficient safety measures cause an accident. Software developers may also be liable for programming errors or security breaches. Vehicle maintenance providers can also share liability if the vehicle fails due to their involvement or lack thereof.
As self-driving technology becomes more prevalent, the legal system is compelled to adapt to address the ensuing liability challenges. Self-driving car crash lawsuits require careful analysis to accurately determine fault among all the distinct entities involved in the development, programming, maintenance, and operation of autonomous vehicles.
Damages You Can Sue for After a Self-Driving Car Accident
You are entitled to sue for your economic and non-economic damages when you’ve been involved in a self-driving car crash. Compensation for accidents typically includes medical expenses, rehabilitation, medication, and future medical needs. Lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and property damage should also be included in your accident claim.
In addition, self-driving car accident victims can seek compensation for non-financial damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, psychological trauma, and diminished quality of life. Autonomous vehicle crashes can have life-altering consequences, which must be addressed through legal proceedings.
Your attorney will go through the process of determining liability by reviewing your evidence and investigating the accident. Then, the extent of your damages will be calculated to determine fair compensation that includes future expenses. Your attorney may rely on expert witnesses to provide context in situations involving complex injuries or liability issues.
Protect Your Financial Security After a Self-Driving Car Crash
The aftermath of a self-driving car crash presents several unique challenges due to the advanced technology and multiple parties that may be responsible. While liability may be shifting from drivers to manufacturers, victims still have the right to seek compensation for the damages they experience as a result of the crash.
If you’ve been in a crash with a self-driving vehicle, contact HHJ Trial Attorneys for expert legal representation. Our team stays up-to-date with all developments in autonomous vehicle law so we can protect your rights and help you secure the compensation you deserve.
