Who Is Liable In A Car Accident Involving A Self-Driving Car?

Once thought of as something only from movies, the self-driving car has become a real modern invention that offers convenience and technological advancement. However, not even a self-driving car is free from being in a car accident. If you were involved in a car accident where the other vehicle was a self-driving car, you may be wondering who is deemed liable. We will explore that further here.

Liability Falls On Vehicle Operator

Oftentimes, it seems that liability falls on the person sitting behind the wheel when it comes to a car accident or other vehicle accident caused by a self-driving example. There is one well-known recent example that made various headlines due to the questions asked when it came to liability behind self-driving cars. A well-known case that really raised the liability issue behind self-driving vehicles took place in Tempe, Arizona, when a woman moving her bicycle across the street was hit by a self-driving car. The woman behind the wheel of the self-driving car was texting, and so she was completely oblivious before the accident occurred. However, it was deduced that the driver of the vehicle still should have intervened and acted to control the vehicle, so the driver was charged with negligent homicide, because she was texting and not paying attention. By depending on the self-driving car to follow the rules, a woman’s life was lost.

Liability May Change Depending On The State

It is important to note that a liable party concerning a self-driving car may change depending on the state. Some states may name the operator of the self-driving vehicle, sometimes referred to as the “passenger” as the liable party. Another liable party that may be named is the manufacturer of the self-driving vehicle. It can all come down to the nature of the accident. For example, if you are in a car crash with a self-driving vehicle and the driver did not attempt to prevent the accident, they may be held liable in the eyes of the law. If there is  an accident caused by a self-driving vehicle that malfunctioned due to a manufacturing error, then the manufacturing company of the car would be to blame.

Speak With A Personal Injury Attorney Today!

When it comes to Auto technology, not even the most advanced technology can prevent a car accident from occurring. If you suffered an injury from a car crash, as a pedestrian or as a driver, due to the liability of a self-driving car, you may be entitled to financial compensation for any damages procured. When it comes to navigating the legal process of a lawsuit concerning a vehicle accident where a self-driving car was involved, you may want to look toward the help of a professional personal injury lawyer. Sit down with a personal injury attorney in San Bernardino or personal injury lawyer in Billings, MT to discuss your case further, and explore your legal options and the lawsuit filing process.

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