- September 2, 2019
A futuristic world of autonomous vehicles is quickly becoming a reality, as many companies are testing driverless vehicles and businesses like Tesla already have their self-driving models on the road. Soon, commuters will be able to sit back and relax while their car takes them to work.In addition to cars that can transport people without the need for a driver, some pioneers of the technology are testing completely automated delivery vehicles. Distributors will someday be able to place their packages onto a truck which will drive itself to the item’s intended destination. The idea of completely driverless vehicles on the nation’s highways understandably raises concerns. A person who is using a self-driving car can interfere if necessary, but completely autonomous vehicles would be reliant on their computer systems.
Currently, driverless delivery vehicles are only in testing. The testing practices of autonomous transportation technology companies require the presence of a “driver” as a safety barrier, but the intention of the technology is that it will one day be completely driver-free. This presents a lot of safety concerns surrounding the ethics of allowing such a large vehicle to operate completely independently and without the protection of human interference.
In theory, what could you do if you were injured in an accident with one of these driverless vehicles? The aftermath of a vehicle collision involves a lot of discussion and negotiation with the other driver, so the absence of a driver removes this element. Without the involvement of another driver, determining fault may be a little more difficult.
As these cases become more frequent, insurance companies will likely rely on the same forms of accident evidence as they always have — photographs, vehicle damage, and witness accounts — but may begin incorporating other ways to determine fault. The operation of autonomous vehicles involves complex computer systems. Data from those systems is one example of new evidence that self-driving car accidents will present.
The legal considerations of any accident case can be confusing. The best thing you can do to resolve your claim is to contact our lawyers. To help you understand the intricacies of your injury claim, Goodman Acker P.C. is here. Our attorneys represent victims of car accidents, dog bites, slip and fall accidents, and more — call now for a free evaluation of your case.
Call (248) 286-8100 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our team of lawyers.