Though self-driving vehicles once seemed like an invention of the distant future, these cars are on the road and becoming more common. However, complications can arise when an autonomous automobile is involved in an accident. After all, you can’t sue a car! Understanding who can be held liable for injuries is vital. If you have questions about these modern problems, you’ll want to keep reading. You’ll also discover how Monmouth County car accident attorneys can help you if you’ve been hurt after an accident involving a self-driving vehicle.
How Do Accidents Involving Self-Driving Vehicles Happen?
While there are no fully autonomous vehicles currently available for personal purchase today, though you may have seen the driverless taxis in California, there are cars with self-driving capabilities on the road at this very moment. However, these still require a driver to be present and alert.
Unfortunately, there are many instances in which a driver using self-driving technology may not take the necessary precautions to avoid distractions. Though you can switch on auto-pilot, it is still the responsibility of the driver to stay aware of their surroundings. If necessary, the driver must be prepared to intervene and regain manual control of the vehicle. However, this feature provides a false sense of security, and many hands-free drivers will eat, text, and fiddle with controls.
Similarly, the technology that allows for autonomous driving may be faulty, which can cause accidents. Unfortunately, even with driver intervention, accidents caused by improper or defective software can be severe and in some instances, fatal.
Who Can Be Held Liable for Injuries That Occur?
Determining liability for accidents involving self-driving cars is something that has only been considered recently. In many instances, the driver is to blame for the collision. As previously mentioned, they need to be aware of hazards around them, and the ability to drive hands-free is something many take advantage of.
However, drivers are not the only party that can be held liable for accidents. The vehicle manufacturer or company responsible for developing the autonomous technology can also face responsibility for collisions. As previously mentioned, defective technology can make it nearly impossible for a driver to intervene and override the vehicle’s action.
It’s also important to understand that not only can the developer and manufacturer be held liable, but in some instances, the dealership and any mechanics who worked on the vehicle may also face liability if they played a part in altering the car leading to a subsequent collision.
When injured in an accident involving a self-driving vehicle, you’ll want to reach out to the Wilton Law Firm immediately. You may be entitled to compensation for any economic and non-economic damages you’ve suffered due to your injuries. Contact us today to learn more about how we can fight to hold negligent parties responsible.
