Self-Driving Car Accident Attorney in Raleigh, NC

Fault for a self-driving car accident can involve multiple parties depending on which factors contributed to the crash. Potentially liable parties could include:

• Human drivers – Even with self-driving features, drivers must remain alert in many cases. If a driver failed to take control when necessary, they might share responsibility for the accident. In other cases, the driver of another car on the road may have caused the collision.
• Vehicle manufacturers – If a car’s design or hardware caused the accident, the manufacturer could be liable. Defective brakes, sensors, or cameras can all contribute to crashes.
• Software developers – Self-driving cars rely on advanced software. Developers could be liable for errors in programming or system failures that caused the vehicle to make dangerous decisions.
• Third-party maintenance companies – If poor maintenance or repairs caused the accident, the party responsible for servicing the car could be accountable.
• Rideshare companies and other autonomous vehicle owners – Some rideshare companies have started using driverless cars. When they don’t properly maintain the vehicle or are otherwise negligent, they can be held responsible for collisions their cars cause.

Damages Available in a Self-Driving Car Accident Claim

After a driverless car accident, you might face financial and personal losses with immediate and long-term impacts on your life. An attorney can help you claim money for these losses so you can recover and move forward. For example, you could seek compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including the costs of emergency care, doctor visits, hospital stays, and medications
• The costs of ongoing treatment, such as additional surgeries or therapy
• Any income you lose while your injuries prevent you from working
• Projected losses in your lifetime earning capacity due to severe injuries that limit your ability to work in the future
• The physical pain and emotional distress resulting from your crash injuries
• Lost quality of life, including losses in your ability to enjoy life, hobbies, and activities you once loved

Common Causes of Self-Driving Car Crashes

Although self-driving vehicles use advanced technology, they are not perfect. Any of the following factors can contribute to a traffic collision involving a driverless car:

• Software malfunctions – Self-driving cars rely on complex software to make decisions. If the system glitches, it might fail to recognize obstacles or react in time to prevent a crash.
• Sensor and camera failures – Autonomous vehicles depend on sensors and cameras to detect their surroundings. If any part of a detection system malfunctions, the car could miss road hazards.
• Human driver errors – Many self-driving systems still require drivers to take control in certain situations. If a driver fails to act in time, they could contribute to an accident.
• Poor road conditions – Self-driving technology works best on clear, well-marked roads. Potholes, unclear lane markings, and construction zones can confuse systems and lead to mistakes.
• Weather-related issues – Rain, fog, or snow can interfere with a driverless car’s ability to detect its environment. Reduced visibility and traction can prevent these cars from operating safely.
• Mechanical problems – Like any vehicle, self-driving cars can experience mechanical failures. Faulty brakes, steering systems, or tires can cause these cars to lose control and crash.