It seems almost too futuristic to be true, but self-driving vehicles are now traversing down roads throughout the United States. All 50 states allow autonomous vehicles, though only some have specific legislation regulating them. Unfortunately, self-driving cars can cause dangerous, potentially deadly accidents. If you are involved in a self-driving car accident in Mississippi, it is strongly recommended that you seek legal advice. An attorney can help you understand who may be held legally responsible or liable for your injuries. Contact our office today to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation with a member of our legal team.
The Rise of Self-Driving Cars
Self-driving or autonomous vehicles use a series of systems to operate without a driver. Most self-driving vehicles on the market today, however, offer some autonomous features while still allowing an operator to take control of the vehicles.
Tesla has been the driving force behind the growth of self-driving cars and currently leads the market. Unfortunately, these cars of the future don’t come without their risks. Tesla recently issued a recall for over 2 million vehicles over safety risks related to their autopilot feature. There have been several legal battles against the manufacturers of these vehicles, including Tesla.
Self-Driving Car Legal Battles
Two deaths and a number of injuries involving self-driving vehicles have prompted a series of legal battles against Tesla and other automakers.
One of the most publicized cases involving a self-driving car occurred in 2018 when a Model X Tesla reportedly engaged in Autopilot struck and killed a pedestrian. The case marked the first known pedestrian fatality linked to an autonomous vehicle.
In 2019, a man’s Model 3 Tesla veered off the highway and crashed into a tree, killing the driver and injuring two passengers. Arguments in the court case allege that the Autopilot system was engaged at the time of the accident, causing the crash. Attorneys for the plaintiff argue that Tesla knew the self-driving feature was defective when the car was sold.
Liability in Self-Driving Vehicle Claims
In most self-driving vehicle accidents, an injured party attempts to pursue compensation from the manufacturer of the autonomous vehicle. In the current legal battles, however, the manufacturer (such as Tesla) has been able to argue that because the self-driving feature can be turned off, it is the operator of the vehicle that should be held liable.
With the rise of self-driving vehicles and the increased reports of injuries and deaths, however, that argument may be more challenging to maintain. If you are involved in an accident with a self-driving car, it is essential to contact an attorney. A lawyer can help determine the best course of legal action to ensure you receive compensation for your injuries.
Contact Our Office to Schedule a Free Consultation
Were you injured in an accident with an autonomous or self-driving vehicle? Contact our office to schedule a free case evaluation. Our lawyers will help you understand your rights and work to determine all of your legal options.
