At Patterson Law Group, we understand the complexities of self-driving car accidents and are here to help you navigate the legal process. As a dedicated San Antonio self-driving car accident lawyer, we work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve when a self-driving vehicle is involved in a collision.
What Is a Self-Driving Car Accident?
Self-driving cars, also known as autonomous vehicles, rely on advanced technology such as sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence (AI) to navigate roads without direct human intervention. While these vehicles are designed to reduce human error, accidents still happen.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that, as of 2022, there had been over 400 reported crashes involving autonomous vehicles, including in Texas.
Determining liability becomes more complicated when a self-driving car is involved in an accident than in traditional accidents. Instead of simply holding a driver accountable, multiple parties may be involved, such as the vehicle manufacturer, software developers, or even other drivers on the road.
That’s where we come in. As experienced self-driving vehicle accident attorneys in San Antonio, we will thoroughly investigate your case and identify all responsible parties to pursue maximum compensation.
Common Causes of Self-Driving Car Accidents
Self-driving vehicles are designed to minimize human error, but accidents can still happen for various reasons.
Here are some of the most common causes of self-driving car accidents:
- Software Malfunctions: The software that controls self-driving vehicles can sometimes malfunction, causing errors in judgment. For instance, the car may misinterpret a traffic signal or fail to recognize a pedestrian, leading to an accident.
- Sensor Failures: Self-driving cars rely heavily on sensors to detect obstacles and navigate roads. A faulty sensor can fail to detect objects or vehicles in the car’s path, resulting in a collision.
- Driver Inattention: Many autonomous vehicles still require drivers to remain attentive and take control when necessary. Some drivers may become over-reliant on the car’s capabilities and fail to intervene in time to avoid an accident.
- Manufacturing Defects: Like any vehicle, autonomous cars are subject to recalls and defects. Faulty parts, such as brakes or tires, can contribute to an accident.
Our team of San Antonio auto accident lawyers has experience in handling cases involving these causes. If you or a loved one have been injured in a self-driving vehicle accident, contact us for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Texas Laws Governing Self-Driving Cars
Texas has been at the forefront of adopting autonomous vehicle technology, but the state also has specific laws to regulate its use. In 2017, Texas passed a law (Senate Bill 2205) that allows fully autonomous vehicles to operate on public roads without a human driver behind the wheel. However, the vehicle must comply with all Texas traffic laws, and the manufacturer is responsible for any violations or accidents caused by the car.
The manufacturer must also have liability insurance in place. According to Texas law, the minimum insurance coverage requirements are:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
These laws place the burden of responsibility on the manufacturer, but determining fault in an accident involving a self-driving car can be complex. As your San Antonio self-driving car accident lawyer, we are well-versed in Texas laws and can help you navigate the legal landscape.
Who Is Liable in a Self-Driving Car Accident?
Determining liability is one of the key challenges in a self-driving car accident case. Unlike a traditional car accident where the at-fault driver can be easily identified, self-driving car accidents can involve multiple liable parties, including:
- Vehicle Manufacturer: The manufacturer may be liable if the accident was caused by a defect in the vehicle’s design or manufacturing.
- Software Developers: Self-driving cars rely on complex software systems to operate. The software developers could be responsible if a software glitch or bug contributed to the accident.
- Other Drivers: Even though self-driving cars are designed to avoid collisions, they cannot control other drivers’ behavior. If another driver’s negligence caused the accident, they might share liability.
- Government Entities: In some cases, poorly maintained roads, defective traffic signals, or inadequate signage can contribute to a crash. In these instances, a government entity could be held liable.
At Patterson Law Group, we understand that no two cases are alike. We will conduct a thorough investigation, review technical data, consult with experts, and build a strong case to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.
Steps to Take After a Self-Driving Car Accident
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a self-driving vehicle, it’s essential to take the right steps to protect your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health should be your top priority. Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention to rule out any internal injuries is crucial.
- Report the Accident: Call the police and file an accident report. This report will serve as a vital piece of evidence in your case.
- Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. This evidence can help support your claim.
- Get Contact Information: Collect the contact details of all parties involved, including witnesses, the driver of the autonomous vehicle (if one existed), and the vehicle’s manufacturer, if available.
- Contact an Attorney: Self-driving car accidents require a deep understanding of personal injury law and technology. Our experienced self-driving vehicle accident attorneys in San Antonio can guide you through the legal process and help you secure compensation.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
- Medical Expenses: This includes current and future medical costs associated with your injuries, such as hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and loss of future earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: Accident injuries can cause physical and emotional pain. Compensation for pain and suffering aims to address this non-economic damage.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle or personal property was damaged in the accident, you may recover compensation for repairs or replacement.
- Punitive Damages: In cases where gross negligence or misconduct by the manufacturer or another party is involved, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party and prevent similar incidents.
Our team of car accident attorneys in San Antonio, Texas, will work tirelessly to maximize your compensation. We will negotiate with insurance companies, gather evidence, and fight for your rights every step of the way.
Why Choose Patterson Law Group?
At Patterson Law Group, we are committed to providing top-notch legal representation to accident victims in San Antonio.
Here’s why you should trust us with your self-driving car accident case:
- Experience: We have years of experience handling complex auto accident cases, including those involving autonomous vehicles. We stay up-to-date on the latest developments in self-driving car technology and laws to provide the best legal representation.
- Client-Focused Approach: We understand that every case is unique and take the time to listen to your needs and concerns. Our personalized approach ensures that your case receives the attention it deserves.
- Proven Results: We have a track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients. Our goal is to help you recover the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing.
If you’ve been involved in a self-driving vehicle accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact us today for a free consultation with a dedicated accident attorney in San Antonio. Let us help you hold the responsible parties accountable and secure the justice you deserve.
