Driverless or autonomous vehicles are no longer a distant concept but a reality on the roads of road in Arizona and across the United States. However, the transition to this new era raises important questions, particularly when it comes to accidents. This is because, typically, in Arizona car accidents, the driver responsible for the crash is liable for damages. However, what do you do if there is no driver?
As driverless car accidents become more common, understanding your rights and navigating the complexities of claiming damages for liability is crucial. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident with an autonomous vehicle, don’t navigate the legal challenges alone. At Jensen Phelan Law Firm, our experienced team is here to guide you through the legal intricacies of your case and advocate for your rights.
While these self-driving vehicles promise enhanced safety and efficiency, the question of liability in the event of an accident can confuse anyone at first glance. In these types of accidents, multiple parties may potentially be held responsible for damages. They include:
If a malfunction or defect in the autonomous vehicle’s hardware is identified as the cause of the collision, the manufacturer may be held liable. Manufacturers must uphold rigorous standards in the development, testing, and deployment of autonomous vehicles and warn of known dangers. If they fail to do so and an accident occurs, you may be able to hold them liable.
The individuals or entities responsible for developing and programming the software that governs the autonomous vehicle’s actions may have liability. If errors in the software lead to an accident, those involved in its creation may be held accountable for damages. Understanding the technology’s limitations and potential glitches is essential in establishing manufacturer responsibility, requiring expert assistance.
Even with autonomous capabilities, there may be instances where a human driver in the vehicle needs to intervene directly or if no driver is in the vehicle, the owner or operator needs to remotely take control. If the vehicle owner or operator fails to do so in a situation that leads to an accident, they could be held liable for negligence.
Autonomous vehicles require regular maintenance and service to make sure the car functions properly. If an accident occurs due to a negligent failure to perform necessary maintenance duties, the responsible service provider may bear liability for negligence.
Road conditions and infrastructure may play a crucial role in the safe operation of autonomous vehicles. If an accident is caused by inadequate road markings, signage, or other infrastructure issues, government entities responsible for maintaining the roads may be liable.
Autonomous vehicles often rely on components and systems from various manufacturers. If a third-party component is identified as the cause of the accident, the manufacturer of that specific component may share liability.
Understanding the potential parties at fault in a driverless car accident is vital for the injured parties to receive the compensation they deserve. As this technology continues to advance, the legal landscape will undoubtedly evolve, making it crucial to stay informed on the latest developments in autonomous vehicle liability.
If you’ve been involved in a self-driving car accident, our seasoned team, with over 65 years of combined experience, is ready to provide a free assessment of your case and a detailed explanation of your rights. Call Jensen Phelan Law Firm at (928) 778-2660 or fill out our contact form to get started today.