The rise of autonomous vehicles, or self-driving cars, has introduced convenience and innovation to the roads, but it has also sparked concerns about safety and liability. If you’ve been hurt in an accident involving a self-driving car, you might be asking, “Who’s responsible?” In comparison to traditional car accidents, where fault is often assigned to one of the drivers, accidents involving autonomous vehicles blur the lines of responsibility.
At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP we understand the challenges of personal injury claims involving autonomous vehicles. We are dedicated to protecting the rights of victims who have suffered in accidents caused by no fault of their own. If you’ve been involved in an accident with an autonomous vehicle, let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
Who Can Be Held Liable in Autonomous Vehicle Accidents?
When it comes to autonomous vehicle accidents, liability can fall on multiple parties. To operate, these vehicles rely on advanced technology, including sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence. While these systems aim to reduce human error, they could be more foolproof. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that self-driving vehicles are twice as likely to be involved in crashes as traditional vehicles. The unique details of each accident determine liability in these situations.
In most cases, liability may fall on the following parties:
- Software Developer
- Vehicle manufacturer
- Vehicle owner
Determining fault in an autonomous vehicle accident requires an in-depth investigation of the technology and the actions of the parties involved. At Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP we work closely with industry experts to find out what caused your accident and identify the responsible party.
What Are Frequent Causes of Autonomous Vehicle Accidents?
Self-driving technology is intended to reduce human error, but it introduces its own set of risks. Common causes of autonomous vehicle accidents include:
- Software Malfunctions: If the vehicle’s programming fails to respond appropriately to road conditions or hazards, a crash can occur
- Sensor Failures: If these sensors are damaged or malfunction, the vehicle may not react in time to prevent a collision
- Human Oversight: When human drivers fail to intervene in emergencies, accidents may occur
These cases tend to be intricate, requiring detailed legal and technical evaluation. The car accident attorneys at Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP have the experience and resources to thoroughly investigate the cause of your accident and seek compensation for you.
What Are the Challenges in Pursuing Compensation for Autonomous Vehicle Accidents in New York?
Filing a personal injury claim involving an autonomous vehicle presents unique challenges. Self-driving car technology is relatively new to begin with, and laws are continuously evolving. Auto manufacturers and tech companies creating these vehicles are prepared with deep legal teams ready to dispute any claims against them.
Some difficulties you may face include:
- Establishing Dault: Unlike traditional car accidents, it can be more challenging to determine who or what is responsible for an autonomous vehicle crash
- Complex Technology: Understanding how the vehicle’s technology played a role in the accident requires a detailed investigation, which can be costly and time-consuming
- Corporate Pushback: Large companies that manufacture or develop autonomous vehicles have the resources to dispute claims and minimize payouts
Despite these challenges, you can hold the liable parties accountable with an experienced legal team by your side.
What to Do if You’re Involved in an Autonomous Vehicle Accident
If you’ve been involved in an accident with a self-driving car, taking the proper steps can help protect your right to compensation:
- Seek medical attention
- Document the scene
- Contact an attorney
After the accident, preserve any evidence and avoid making statements to insurance companies without legal guidance. That will help ensure you have the most robust possible case moving forward.
Get Help From Experienced New York Car Accident Attorneys
If you’ve been injured in an autonomous vehicle accident, don’t face the legal challenges alone. At Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP we have the experience and resources to take on large manufacturers and tech companies on your behalf. Our team will investigate every detail of your case, working with industry experts to uncover the facts and build a strong legal claim.
Choosing Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP means partnering with attorneys dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve. We are here to help you, to work for you, and to fight for you. Our firm offers aggressive advocacy and close support throughout the legal process. Contact us today at (718) 280-5337 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation. Also, see our YouTube Channel for more information.
