Self-driving cars are now out on the roads. Because of these vehicles that operate without human control, the landscape for personal injury claims has started to change. If a driver acts negligently, then he or she is responsible for any damages that result.
If a self-driving vehicle causes an accident, you will have to prove that it did indeed err and that the accident that resulted was caused by its malfunction. Self-driving vehicles are supposed to safely navigate themselves because they can sense their surroundings.
These vehicles use computer vision, laser vision, GPS, odometry, and radar to sense things and to “see” where it is going. If something goes wrong, an accident can result.
If you have been in an accident with a self-driving vehicle in Illinois, you should consult with a personal injury attorney who will help you file your claim and build your case.
How Negligence Comes into Play
To have a successful personal injury claim, you must show that negligence led to the damages that were suffered. There are four elements of negligence. The first element is that you must show that there was a duty of the other party to act in a specific manner, so others were not at risk.
You then must prove that duty was breached or failed. Third, you will prove that when that duty was breached it caused the accident. And last, you must prove that the accident caused the injuries and damages that resulted. In Illinois, modified comparative negligence is used.
This means that if you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident, you can recover damages.
Illinois Accident and Insurance Laws
In Illinois, modified comparative negligence is used. This means that you could be up to 50% to blame for the accident and still recover compensation. As an example, you were involved in a crash with a self-driving vehicle where the self-driving car was deemed to be 60% at fault.
If your damages were $75,000, you can recover 60% of them, or up to $45,000. You will have to prove what happened to cause your accident and then prove what damages resulted in the aftermath.
As an example, the self-driving car might have failed to yield right of way and struck your vehicle. How you contributed to the crash is considered as well.
In Illinois, drivers are required to have auto insurance. Liability coverage is required in the following amounts. A minimum of $25,000 for injury or death of a person in an accident, minimum of $50,000 for the injury or death of more than one person in an accident, and $20,000 for damage to property of another person.
If you are caught driving without insurance in the state, you could face up to a $1,000 fine and your driver’s license and vehicle will be suspended for three months until proof of insurance and a $100 reinstatement fee have been submitted. Repeat offenders face greater penalties.
Speak With A Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been involved in an accident with a self-driving vehicle in Illinois, you should speak with a personal injury attorney. There is a two-year statute of limitations for pursuing a claim for an injury to person and a five-year statute of limitations for pursuing a claim for injury to property.
Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form today to get your free case review so you can get your claim underway.
