If you have been hit by a self-driving car, you are probably wondering who is at fault. While self-driving cars have been in crashes, very few have been blamed on the self-driving vehicles and their developing technology.
Google has developed self-driving cars that are being tested on the roads of many cities throughout the country, so you might wonder if Google is at fault if I am hit by a self-driving car? Well, that actually depends on the accident and the situation. Of course, like other accidents, it is a case by case basis.
Determining Who is at Fault if You Are Hit By a Self-Driving Car
Data shows that self-driving vehicles are safer than vehicles operated by humans. So, according to Scientific American, that means that most driverless carmakers are going to agree to cover the costs of accidents that are proven to be the fault of their vehicle.
However, just like with any other vehicle, you will have to file a successful personal injury claim against Google. So, you will have to prove that there was negligence on the part of the Google driverless vehicle.
The Four Elements of Negligence
There are four elements of negligence. This means that all four elements must be shown to prove that negligence did occur. The four elements are duty, breach, causation, and damages.
That means all drivers and vehicles have a responsibility or duty to act in a proper way when on the roads in order to prevent accidents and to keep others from being harmed. That duty is breached when a driver ignores traffic regulations, such as he or she speeds or runs a stop sign.
The same goes for a self-driving vehicle. When that duty is breached it can cause an accident. You must show that breach of duty caused the crash that resulted. Then, you must prove that the damages you suffered resulted from the crash that resulted from that breach of duty.
If you can prove negligence, then you will have a successful personal injury claim. Your attorney will help you with this aspect of your claim, so you can request compensation for your damages.
Damages That Might Be Suffered
When you file a personal injury claim, you must claim all damages at once. That means, your accident injury attorney will sit down with you and help you determine which damages resulted from the crash.
Common damages from an accident include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damages, permanent scarring and disfigurement, loss of consortium, and more.
Most states have a specific statute of limitations for pursuing a personal injury claim, such as within two or three years after an accident. If you wait too long, you cannot recover compensation.
Consult With a Personal Injury Attorney
If you have been involved in an accident with a driverless vehicle, you should consult with a personal injury attorney. Your lawyer can tell you if Google is at fault if you were hit by a self-driving car. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to get your free case review today.
Additional Resources
*Disclaimer: The content of this article serves only to provide information and should not be construed as legal advice. If you file a claim against Google, or any other party, you may not be entitled to any compensation.
