Advances in technology always come with adjustment periods, where the new systems are tested in the real world and any lingering problems are worked out. When the new technology has the power to hurt and kill others – such as self-driving vehicles – safety is paramount. Unfortunately, autonomous vehicles are not perfect machines, and can cause serious and fatal car accidents in Texas. If you’re injured in a car accident, make sure to speak with a San Antonio accident lawyer for legal guidance.
What Causes Self-Driving Car Accidents?
Motor vehicle accidents in Texas can have many contributing factors, most of which have to do with human error. Self-driving vehicle accidents have the additional element of autonomous technology, which may malfunction and contribute to a crash.
Common causes of self-driving vehicle collisions include:
- Software or hardware failure: self-driving vehicle technology was created to improve road safety by reducing the number of accidents caused by human error. However, issues with the technology itself can cause accidents.
- Human driver negligence: most self-driving cars are not 100 percent autonomous. They still require a human driver to intervene in dangerous circumstances. If the driver is distracted or does not take over control of the vehicle when directed, this can lead to an accident.
- Poor vehicle maintenance: self-driving cars require maintenance just like other vehicles. If the owner does not properly maintain the car, it can experience dangerous mechanical failures and breakdowns that contribute to accidents.
Self-driving vehicles are tested by the companies that create them. They must comply with federal and state motor vehicle safety standards to minimize risks. Unfortunately, self-driving automotive standards can be broken to save time or money, creating crash risks for consumers.
Who Pays After a Self-Driving Car Crash in Texas?
Texas is a fault-based state, not a no-fault state. Under this rule, the party that is at fault for an automobile accident must pay for the damage caused by the crash, including the victim’s medical bills and property repair costs. When a motor vehicle accident in Texas involves a self-driving car, the cause of the crash must be determined by investigators before a claim can be filed against the correct party.
The party held liable, or financially responsible, may be the human driver of the self-driving car, the manufacturer of the vehicle, the company behind the autonomous software or technology, a vehicle maintenance company, or the government for a roadway defect. Multiple parties may share fault, as well, and each will be held financially responsible for their portion of liability.
Challenges Involved in Self-Driving Car Accident Cases
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident with a self-driving car in Texas can be difficult on your own. These cases are often challenging, with complications such as multiple liable parties or allegations of comparative negligence (an insurer blaming you for the accident). The legal framework surrounding self-driving car accident cases may require an attorney to navigate.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can investigate your accident to determine fault and collect evidence. Your lawyer will also have the power to go up against large corporations, including automakers and their insurance providers. Meanwhile, you can focus on your health and healing from injuries. Your lawyer will take care of communications with insurance providers or represent you during a personal injury trial if your case cannot reach a settlement.
If you were recently hurt in a self-driving car accident anywhere in Texas, contact Hill Law Firm Accident & Injury Lawyers for a free case consultation. We can help you handle this complex type of case with personalized legal services.