Who’s to Blame for a Self-Driving Car Accident?

Self-driving cars are becoming more commonplace in our everyday lives. With advances in technology come changes to laws and regulations governing how self-driving cars operate, who is held accountable in the event of an accident, and what rights those injured in collisions have. In this article, we will explore who is assigned blame in self-driving car accidents and what steps you should take if you are injured in one. 

Who Can Be Held Liable?

When it comes to assigning blame for a self-driving car accident, the law is still catching up. Currently, most states allow for two general assignees: either the driver or the automated system. If the driver is deemed to be at fault, they can be held liable for any damages caused by their negligence. On the other hand, if an automated system is determined to be at fault, then the manufacturer of that system may be held responsible for any resulting damages.

It’s important to note that even if a driver is not found to be at fault in an accident involving a self-driving car, they may still need to take certain steps depending on the state they are operating in. For example, some states may require drivers to submit a report detailing any malfunctions or errors that occurred during the operation of their vehicle. This report can help investigators identify whether or not there were other contributing factors that led to the accident and provide insight into who should be assigned blame. Additionally, drivers may also need to pay special attention to any recalls or maintenance reports associated with their vehicles.

What to Do After an Accident

After an accident involving a self-driving car, it’s important for everyone involved to take certain steps right away. The first step is seeking medical attention regardless of how small or insignificant your injuries may seem. We encourage people to do this first because you never know if an injury will get worse over time. Second, if you are able to, take pictures and gather information related to the crash. Collecting evidence early on can only help your case. The third step is to contact your insurance provider and file a claim as soon as possible after an accident. Fourth, you should seek out legal counsel from an experienced personal injury law firm if you are looking to recover damages incurred from your auto collision. An attorney can help secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other expenses related to your injury from the responsible party and ensure that you receive fair treatment throughout the process.

Need a Car Accident Lawyer in Colorado? We Can Help.

Understanding the laws surrounding self-driving cars and taking the appropriate actions after an accident are essential for victims looking for fair compensation for their losses. If you or someone you know was involved in a car accident, call (719) 633-2222 to speak with one of our experienced car accident attorneys today.

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