As technology advances, automated vehicles are becoming a more common sight on our roads. These self-driving cars promise increased safety, efficiency, and convenience. However, with the rise of automated vehicles, new legal challenges have also emerged, particularly concerning liability in accidents involving these high-tech cars.
Liability in an automated vehicle accident can take time to determine, as it might include anyone from the car driver, manufacturer, another motorist, maintenance employees, government entities, or any other involved parties. If you need any assistance with your motor vehicle accident, please contact Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson, LLP. We offer free consultations and work on contingency, so don’t hesitate to contact us today.
What Are Automated Vehicles?
According to the Texas Transportation Code, an automated or autonomous vehicle is a motor vehicle with an automated driving system. The automated driving system generally involves hardware and software that, when engaged, allows the car to perform without “intervention or supervision from a human.” However, other laws have been passed regarding vehicular operation and human interaction.
However, most automated vehicles are not perfectly autonomous. They require some degree of human control, including supervision. Based on their level of autonomous operation, these cars are rated on a scale created by the Society of Automobile Engineers (SAE).
The SAE J3016 has determined that vehicles have six levels of automation, ranging from level zero (no driving automation) to level five (fully automated). Fully autonomous vehicles are not necessarily common, but they are currently operated in Texas.
Who Is Responsible for an Accident Involving an Automated Car?
In a car accident involving an automated vehicle, it can be difficult to determine liability without a thorough investigation. However, when looking into liability, it’s also necessary to determine how autonomous the car is, whether any autonomy settings were enabled, and how engaged other parties were during the incident.
The following parties may be responsible for an accident involving an automated car:
- Manufacturer, distributor, or designer of the automated vehicle
- Other parts or equipment manufacturers
- The driver of the automated vehicle
- Another driver
- City or state government entity
- Maintenance employees
- Pedestrians or passengers involved in the incident
Other parties may have been involved, including those who were not physically present at the time of the crash. More than one party may also be responsible.
A lawyer from Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson, LLP can help you throughout your claim, including by determining who is responsible for your losses.
How is Liability Determined in Automated Vehicle Accidents?
In injury claims, including those involving automated vehicle accidents, liability is determined with four essential elements. To receive compensation for your claim, you must demonstrate the following:
- You were owed a duty of care: Everyone is responsible for maintaining a safe environment on the road. This allows everyone to reach their destinations safely and on time, mitigating the risk of injuries or death.
- Someone breached their duty of care: Also known as negligence, someone breaching their duty of care might include the manufacturer sending out a faulty vehicle, a driver ignoring traffic signals, and several other actions.
- Negligence that caused injuries: Acting negligently does not always mean someone gets hurt. You can typically demonstrate causation with a timestamped medical document.
- Losses: Qualifying damages and losses will qualify for compensation. Eligible economic losses include medical bills, repair costs, and lost wages.
If you need assistance proving liability in your claim, we can help. At Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson, LLP, we can speak on your behalf and relieve unnecessary stress.
Injured in an Automated Car Accident? Retain Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson, LLP for Support From a Lawyer
Determining liability in automated vehicle accidents requires extensive knowledge of the legal landscape. At Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson, LLP, our team is dedicated to meticulously investigating each case to identify all responsible parties and build a strong claim on your behalf.
With over 60 years of experience, our firm has earned a reputation for excellence and thoroughness in personal injury law. We pride ourselves on providing personalized legal services tailored to each client’s unique needs. If you’ve been involved in an automated vehicle accident, contact us at (512) 454-3751 or visit our contact form. We’re here to help you navigate this challenging process.
