Self-Driving Car Accident: Who Is Responsible?

The newer the vehicle, the more likely it is to have a self-driving option. This resource can be great for those making long road trips, and it allows the driver to divert their attention elsewhere for a minute. Self-driving cars vary in their abilities, but even the most complex of technologies still require human interference. When an accident occurs and the other driver is using self-driving technology, who is at fault? 

At the end of the day, the driver is ultimately responsible for their actions. If they choose to utilize their vehicle’s self-driving option, fail to adequately monitor the situation, and an accident ensues, they can be found negligent for their recklessness. In order to ensure your case gets the attention and results you deserve, it is best to partner with a car accident attorney you can trust. Sweeney Merrigan Personal Injury Lawyers has proudly served our community for over 45 years now and would love to help you out today. To schedule a free consultation, please feel free to call our office at (617) 391-9001 or use our contact form. 

Determining Liability for Accidents Involving Self-Driving Cars

Liability is established through negligence. In the case of a self-driving car accident, the driver still has the duty to operate their vehicle in a safe manner. This means actively monitoring their environment and reacting to the surrounding traffic and vehicles. If a self-driving car fails to yield on time, runs a red light, or does any other illegal activity, this will be considered a direct breach of their duty of care and can be used against them. 

It is important to note that Massachusetts is a no-fault state, meaning an attorney can help you first go through your own health insurance and personal auto insurance to get compensation. If the breach of care has directly resulted in a serious injury or excess property damage, your attorney can help you file a personal injury claim. 

The other driver is not the only potentially liable party in a self-driving accident. If the accident is proven to have been caused by a defective part or software malfunction in the self-driving car, you may be entitled to file a claim against the self-driving motor vehicle’s manufacturer. The manufacturer of the car company has the duty to make sure their vehicles are safe to drive, which includes the self-driving technology aspect. 

How a Dedicated Attorney Can Help

While you concentrate on recovering from your injuries, the team of car accident lawyers at Sweeney Merrigan Personal Injury Lawyers are here to help handle the tricky legal aspects of your claim. This includes the gathering and analysis of any potentially relevant evidence to demonstrate a negligent party. This can include traffic camera footage, detailed medical records, eyewitness accounts, police reports, and expert testimony. 

From here, we will file your claim within the statute of limitations deadline and handle all communication and scheduling with the insurance company. This includes the negotiation period, where we will fight for you to recover the highest settlement amount possible for your specific circumstances. If a worthy agreement cannot be reached, we are even prepared to take your case to court. 

Injured in an Accident? Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Don’t wait another day to secure the justice and compensation you deserve after your motor vehicle accident. The dedicated team at Sweeney Merrigan Personal Injury Lawyers is here to guide you every step of the way. Your future matters, and we’re committed to protecting your rights. Co-founding partner J. Tucker Merrigan is proud to offer documented successes and has been lauded by outlets such as Rising Lawyer and Super Lawyers. 

Reach out to us now at (617) 391-9001 or complete our contact form to schedule a free case evaluation and consultation. Let us help you pave the way towards the brighter future you deserve. Your journey to justice starts today.