Self-driving or autopilot features in newer vehicles are often promoted as a way to reduce car accidents and keep the roads safer. However, this innovative technology still needs to iron out many issues before it can fully take over.
If you are in a car accident in California, you must understand your rights after sustaining injuries when autopilot is involved. It’s also crucial to understand the different levels of vehicle automation.
Currently, vehicles with autopilot features offer driver assistance through adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance or additional assistance through acceleration, braking, and steering.
Determining Responsibility in a California Car Crash with Autopilot Features
In any California car accident, determining fault is crucial to securing compensation for injuries and damages. When a vehicle has these automated features, it can add another layer of complexity.
Who could be held liable for an autopilot car wreck?
The Driver
Any driver who fails to exercise ordinary care on the roads may be liable for damages caused by their negligence. A driver operating a car with self-driving features must be actively engaged and aware on the road. If the owner of the vehicle permitted someone else to drive, the vehicle owner may be liable.
A Government Entity
Some accidents are caused by unsafe roadways that have potholes, unclear signage, and other issues. In these cases, you may be able to sue the responsible government entity.
When Product Liability Issues Cause Autopilot Accidents
Self-driving vehicles may also have a design or manufacturing defect. This would make them a product liability claim. Any manufacturing defect, design defect, or lack of sufficient product warnings could mean you have legal cause to file a product liability lawsuit.
Accidents with autopilot vehicles may involve software glitches or system failures or even prevent the driver from taking control of the vehicle. Driverless vehicle systems use cameras, radars, and computers to control the speed of the vehicle, apply brakes, and change lanes.
According to California’s product liability laws, the company that designed, manufactured, or sold the defective vehicle or vehicle part may be liable for injuries caused in these situations. Since the laws are based on strict liability, there is no need to establish negligence, though you will need to prove that this autopilot system was dangerous and was what caused this accident.
How an Attorney Can Help in Accidents with Autopilot Cars
California car accidents can be complex with the fault-based insurance model. When you add autopilot features into the equation, determining who is liable for your injuries and damages can be difficult.
Auto accident lawyers know how to conduct thorough investigations into the accident to determine whether the driver, the manufacturer, or even a government entity was responsible. Self-driving vehicles are incredibly complicated because of these new technologies. When autopilot features go haywire, you should seek legal representation to uphold your rights and advocate for your best interests.
