What to Do If You’re Hurt in a Self-Driving Car Accident

The photo shows a line of self-driving vehicles. When you're hurt in a self-driving car accident, the aftermath is overwhelming.
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You only wanted to arrive at your destination safely. But a self-driving car accident changed your plans, and more importantly, your life. These are the steps you can take after a collision to keep you safe and build a claim to hold responsible parties accountable.

What is an Autonomous Car?

A common misconception is that automated vehicles don’t require drivers.

Self-driving cars aren’t always driverless vehicles. For example, Tesla promotes full-self driving, but that feature requires human supervision. In this blog, an autonomous vehicle is like Alphabet’s Waymo or Zoox: a robotaxi with no human operator.

What to Do After an Accident With an Automated Vehicle

Hurt and confused, you may not know what to do in the aftermath of an accident. Fortunately, whether you collide with an automated vehicle or a regular car, the steps are often the same. This is what you should do.

  1. Make sure everyone is safe. If at all possible, move you and everyone involved to a safe location.
  2. Call emergency services, including law enforcement and medical assistance.
  3. Document the scene and injuries with photographs and videos.
  4. Seek medical help, even if you feel “fine.” All documentation can help your potential claim.
  5. Contact your insurance company and provide documentation without taking blame. If possible, hire a lawyer before giving any official statements.

One of the most important things you can do is to not trust the technology. Manufacturers will try to shift the blame to user error. But technology is not imperfect, and some autonomous vehicles may be operating safely or legally.

That is why legal help is essential in filing your claim.

Who is at Fault in a Self-Driving Car Accident?

Laws and vehicle technologies for automated vehicles are still developing. As a result, determining fault is difficult in a self-driving car accident. These parties could be held liable.

Automobile Manufacturers

If a mechanical failure or structural defect caused the crash.

Software Developers

If the algorithms or “AI” failed to detect a pedestrian or another vehicle.

Sensor and Component Creators

If the cameras or radar failed to function in specific weather or lighting conditions.

Human Errors

If the human driver or operator of either vehicle caused the collision.

Are you unsure whether or not you have a claim? Begin researching law firms for the best attorney for you and your situation.

Why You Should Hire a Self-Driving Car Accident Attorney

You don’t need to face a tech giant alone. Companies like Tesla and Google have massive legal teams to shift blame onto you. You need a nationwide force that knows how to hold these corporations accountable.

At Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, we have the dedication and resources to investigate on your behalf. We can research complex data and hire the nation’s leading automotive experts. Most importantly, we can fight for your maximum compensation.

After an accident involving an autonomous vehicle, you need to move quickly. Don’t wait for the corporation to move first. Call us today at (800) 229-7989 for a free case review.

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