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Injured by a Self-Driving Car? Here’s What You Need to Know About Liability

Self-driving cars are no longer a futuristic concept—they're here, and they're changing the way we think about road safety, responsibility, and liability. With autonomous vehicle technology being tested and deployed across California, the legal landscape is still evolving.

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a self-driving vehicle, you may be asking the critical question: Who’s responsible?

At Robert Jweinat Law Group, we help clients navigate complex personal injury claims, including those involving cutting-edge technology. Here’s what you need to know if you’re dealing with the aftermath of an autonomous vehicle crash.

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What Are Self-Driving Cars?

Self-driving, or autonomous, vehicles use a combination of sensors, cameras, radar, and artificial intelligence to drive with minimal human input. These vehicles are typically classified by their level of autonomy—ranging from Level 1 (basic driver assistance) to Level 5 (fully autonomous, with no need for a steering wheel or driver).

Currently, most vehicles on the road—including those marketed as “self-driving”—still require human supervision and fall somewhere in the Level 2 or 3 range.

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Who Can Be Held Liable in a Self-Driving Car Accident?

Determining fault in an accident involving a self-driving vehicle isn’t always straightforward. Liability may fall on several parties, including:

The Driver / Vehicle Owner: If the vehicle is not fully autonomous and the driver was supposed to remain alert, they may still be held liable—especially if they failed to take over when necessary.

The Vehicle Manufacturer: If the accident was caused by a malfunction in the autonomous system (such as a faulty sensor or software glitch), the manufacturer could be liable under product liability laws.

‍Software Developers: In cases where a software failure or algorithmic error caused the crash, liability could extend to the tech company that created or maintained the vehicle’s driving system.

The Company Operating the Vehicle: If the self-driving vehicle is part of a rideshare or delivery fleet, the business entity that owns or operates the vehicle may bear responsibility—especially if they failed to maintain the vehicle or ignored known safety concerns.

Maintenance Providers: Improper vehicle maintenance by a third-party repair shop could contribute to liability.

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How Many Self-Driving Cars Have Crashed?

While self-driving cars are designed to enhance road safety, crashes still happen. According to recent data:

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recorded thousands of self-driving car crashes in the U.S. over the last few years.

Tesla, one of the most popular semi-autonomous vehicle manufacturers, has reported multiple incidents involving its “Autopilot” system.

Waymo and other autonomous ride-sharing companies have also experienced crashes, some resulting in serious injuries.

As testing and real-world use continue, we expect these numbers to grow, increasing the urgency to resolve legal questions about liability.

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Common Causes of Self-Driving Car Accidents

Despite advanced technology, self-driving vehicles are still vulnerable to many of the same risks as traditional cars, such as:‍

Software Malfunctions: Errors in the car’s programming can cause miscalculations, missed stops, or dangerous maneuvers.‍

Sensor Failures: If cameras or radar systems fail, the car may not detect obstacles or other vehicles.‍

Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and snow can interfere with sensors and navigation systems.‍

Human Error: In semi-autonomous vehicles, human drivers may not intervene in time when required.‍

Road Hazards: Construction zones, debris, and unpredictable pedestrian behavior can confuse AI systems.

Understanding the cause of the crash is essential to determine who is liable.

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How Does Insurance Work for Self-Driving Car Accidents?

Insurance for self-driving cars functions similarly to traditional policies, but claims can get complicated. Here’s how it typically works:‍

Driver’s Insurance: If the vehicle is privately owned, the driver’s auto insurance might cover damages, depending on the policy and fault determination.‍

Product Liability Claims: If the vehicle’s autonomous system malfunctions, the victim may file a claim against the manufacturer.‍

Third-Party Liability: If another driver or external factor contributed to the crash, traditional liability rules apply.

Because of these complexities, working with an experienced El Paso car accident lawyer is crucial to navigating your claim.

What to Do After a Self-Driving Car Accident?

If you’re involved in a self-driving car accident, follow these steps:

Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.

Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the vehicles, road conditions, and injuries.

Exchange Information: Gather contact details from any drivers, passengers, and witnesses.

Get Medical Care: Some injuries may not appear immediately, so always see a doctor.

Contact an Attorney: Self-driving car accidents require skilled legal guidance to secure the compensation you deserve.

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The Future of Self-Driving Cars and Liability

As self-driving technology continues to evolve, we can expect laws to change as well. Questions about who is responsible in the event of an accident will continue to shift as fully autonomous vehicles hit the road.

For now, most self-driving cars still require human oversight, which means drivers often share liability. However, as manufacturers push toward full autonomy, future accidents may place more blame on technology and its creators.

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Contact the Jweinat Law Group

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a self-driving car, you don’t have to navigate the complexities alone. At Jweinat Law Group, we provide clear, aggressive, and compassionate representation to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

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Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us help you move forward with confidence.