December 17, 2023

Driverless Car Accidents

driverless car accident Broken white car closeup

In traditional vehicle accidents, liability often rests with the driver at fault. However, in the realm of autonomous vehicles, this dynamic shifts. The question of liability for driverless car accidents is complex and still evolving. In some cases, the manufacturer of the driverless car may be liable for the accident. In other cases, the driver of the driverless car may be liable. Additionally, the driver of another vehicle involved in the accident may be liable.

In 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that there were 429 crashes involving self-driving vehicles. Of these crashes, 10 resulted in serious injuries and 1 resulted in a fatality.

One of the most notable driverless car accidents occurred in 2016, when a Tesla Model S collided with a tractor-trailer truck in Williston, Florida. The driver of the Tesla was killed in the accident. The NHTSA’s investigation found that the Tesla’s autopilot system failed to properly identify the tractor-trailer truck, leading to the collision.

Another notable driverless car accident occurred in 2020, when an Uber self-driving car struck and killed a pedestrian in Tempe, Arizona. The NHTSA’s investigation found that the Uber car’s safety systems failed to properly identify the pedestrian.

What to do After a Driverless Car Accident

If you are involved in a driverless car accident, it is important to take the following steps:

  • Step 1: Check for injuries.
    If you or anyone else involved in the accident is injured, call 911 immediately.
  • Step 2: Move to a safe location.
    If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location off the road. This will help to prevent further accidents.
  • Step 3: Exchange information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident.
    This information should include names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
  • Step 4: Take pictures of the accident scene.
    This includes taking pictures of the damage to your vehicle and the other vehicle(s) involved in the accident. You should also take pictures of any skid marks, traffic signs, or other evidence that may be relevant to the accident.
  • Step 5: File a police report.
    Even if the accident is minor, it is important to file a police report. This will create a record of the accident and will be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim.
  • Step 6: Contact your insurance company.
    As soon as possible after the accident, contact your insurance company to file a claim. Your insurance company will investigate the accident and determine who is liable.
  • Step 7: Contact an experienced Roseville personal injury lawyer.
    If you have been injured in a driverless car accident, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. A Roseville accident attorney can help you determine who is liable for the accident and can help you pursue compensation for your injuries.

Here are some additional tips for dealing with the aftermath of a driverless car accident:

  • Keep a copy of all of your medical records and bills. This will help to document your injuries and expenses.
  • Keep a journal of your pain and suffering. This will help you to document the impact that the accident has had on your life.
  • Do not hesitate to file a lawsuit if necessary. If the insurance company is unwilling to offer you a fair settlement, you may need to file a lawsuit. A lawyer can help you with this process.

Securing Your Rights in the Age of Autonomous Vehicles

The journey towards fully autonomous transportation is fraught with legal intricacies and uncertainties. For individuals involved in driverless car accidents, navigating this uncharted territory can be daunting. This is where the Manzoor Law Firm becomes indispensable. As a leading Placer County personal injury lawyer, Manzoor Law Firm offers unparalleled legal guidance and advocacy.

If you’re seeking a Sacramento accident attorney, Manzoor Law Firm stands ready to assist. Their commitment to justice and client satisfaction ensures that your rights are protected in these complex cases. If you or a loved one has been involved in a driverless car accident, do not hesitate to seek the legal counsel you need. Contact Manzoor Law Firm today for a consultation.