As self-driving cars are growing in popularity, they are changing the landscape for personal injury claims. If you have been involved in an accident in which you were hit by a self-driving vehicle, you need to consult with a personal injury attorney.
Self-driving cars are vehicles that sense the environment around them and navigating the area safely without human input. Technology used to operate a self-driving car includes radar, GPS, odometer, laser lights, and computer vision.
How Negligence Comes into Play
Most accidents come into play because there was an act of negligence. There are four elements of negligence. First, you must show there was a duty of care. Second, you must show that duty was breached. Third, you must show that breaching that duty caused the accident.
And last, but not least, you must show that the self-driving car made a mistake or malfunctioned, which was the cause of the accident that you were involved in.
You will have to show that the self-driving vehicle ran the traffic signal, failed to stop, crossed into your lane of traffic, or did something that led to the accident that resulted. California uses comparative negligence, which allows you to sue for the damages that can be attributed to the defendant.
California Accident and Insurance Laws
When it comes to accidents in California, pure comparative negligence is used. That means if you are 50% at fault and the other vehicle is 50% at fault, you can pursue damages against the other driver and be awarded the percent of damages that the other vehicle is liable for.
As an example, if you suffered $100,000 in damages and the self-driving car is considered 30% at fault, you can recover $30,000 in a claim against the responsible party.
There is a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California, which means you have two years from the date of the accident to pursue a claim to recover damages.
California requires drivers to carry a minimum amount of auto insurance coverage. Bodily injury and liability insurance coverage minimum of at least $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident, a minimum of $5,000 property damage liability coverage, and insured motorist bodily injury coverage of at least $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident.
California law requires that you have a way to cover the costs for any damages or injuries that you may cause in a car accident. Maintaining auto insurance coverage is the best way to be able to do that.
Speak With A California Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been involved in an accident with a self-driving vehicle in California that has left you with injuries and damages, you should consult with a personal injury attorney.
Most accident injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, which means they will not get paid until you get compensated for your damages through a settlement or a judgment.
Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form today to get your details shared with an attorney who can review your case and help you get your claim on track.
