By Marcus Fernandez
Auto emergency braking. Air bags. Electronic stability control. Car manufacturers continue to develop ways to ensure that both car drivers and passengers remain safe in the case of an accident. One of the latest innovations in vehicle technology is the creation of a self-driving car. With a computer manning the wheel, the possibility of human error contributing to a crash is greatly diminished. But accidents still do happen.
Auto manufacturer, Tesla grabbed headlines recently when a self-driving enthusiast, Joshua Brown, was involved in a fatal car accident. While set on autopilot, Brown’s Tesla collided with a tractor-trailer. The semi truck turned in front of the vehicle, and the car failed to trigger the breaks causing the collision.
The Blame Game in Self-Driving Car Accidents
So who is responsible during an accident where the driver is the car itself?
A number of car manufacturers, such as Volvo, indicate that they are willing to accept liability if one of their vehicles is at fault. However, it is not necessarily that easy to determine where the fault lies. A driver-less car consists of numerous computerized systems developed by different programmers produced by various companies. Pinpointing the system that caused or contributed to the crash can be difficult and time consuming.
Also, governments have not yet developed policies regulating the self-driving car industry to help ensure that consumers understand that they will have legal and financial recourse. With humans causing more than 94% of the car accidents each year, it’s not surprising that top regulators have indicated they’re determined to pursue “life-saving technologies” and tools for increased road safety.
Even though the self-driving car may seem like a thing of the future, car accidents are, unfortunately, a thing of the present. If you have been involved in a car accident, either as a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist, contact us. Only a reputable and experienced law firm specializing in vehicular crashes can help you navigate your claim and get the compensation you deserve.
If you need a Car Accident Attorney, contact us.
