If you’ve been injured in an autonomous vehicle crash, navigating the legal landscape can be complex. That’s where we come in. As an experienced self-driving car accident lawyer in Seattle, we’re committed to fighting for your rights and getting you the compensation you deserve.
The Rise of Self-Driving Cars and Their Legal Implications
Self-driving or autonomous vehicles are becoming more prevalent in Seattle and Washington. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 130 autonomous vehicle crashes were reported nationwide from July 2021 to June 2022. While these numbers might seem low compared to overall vehicle accidents, the implications of autonomous car accidents are vast, as the technology is still relatively new.
As your trusted Seattle self-driving car accident attorney, we know that cases involving these vehicles are unique. Determining liability can be more complicated because the question arises: Is the driver at fault, or does the blame fall on the vehicle manufacturer, software provider, or even a third-party technician?
We have the experience at Bernard Law Group to take on these challenges. We will work to identify who should be held accountable, whether it’s the human operator, the vehicle’s producer, or another party.
Washington Laws on Self-Driving Cars
Washington state is at the forefront of legislation around autonomous vehicles. In 2020, the state passed a bill (RCW 46.92.010) allowing autonomous vehicles to be tested and operated on public roads.
However, the law also requires these vehicles to comply with all safety regulations. This means that even if a car is in autonomous mode, the company or individual who owns the car can still be held liable in the event of an accident.
As your auto collision attorney in Seattle, Washington, we stay up-to-date on all laws affecting self-driving car accidents. Our deep understanding of Washington’s specific regulations ensures we can leverage them to support your case. If you’ve been injured in a crash involving a self-driving car, you need an attorney who knows the laws inside and out.
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Common Causes of Self-Driving Car Accidents
Although autonomous vehicles are designed to reduce human error, accidents still happen. Here are some of the most common causes of self-driving car accidents:
- Software Malfunctions: The software running these vehicles may fail to recognize obstacles, misinterpret traffic signs, or fail to make safe driving decisions.
- Sensor Failures: Sensors are crucial for detecting nearby objects and navigating the road. If sensors fail, the vehicle could collide with other cars or pedestrians.
- Human Operator Error: Many autonomous vehicles still require a human operator to take control under certain conditions. A crash can occur if the human operator fails to act when necessary.
- Other Drivers on the Road: Even if self-driving cars function properly, accidents can happen if other drivers act recklessly or negligently.
As a Seattle car wreck lawyer, we have seen how autonomous vehicle accidents occur and are prepared to hold all responsible parties accountable.
Determining Liability in a Seattle Self-Driving Car Accident
Liability in an accident involving an autonomous vehicle can be complex. Unlike traditional car accidents, where one or more drivers are usually responsible, self-driving car accidents introduce other potentially liable parties. These could include:
- The Vehicle Manufacturer: The automaker could be held responsible if a design or manufacturing defect contributed to the crash.
- The Software Provider: Autonomous vehicles rely on sophisticated software systems. If the crash were due to a software malfunction, the provider could be at fault.
- The Human Operator: Many self-driving cars are not fully autonomous and require human supervision. They might be liable if the human operator failed to intervene at a critical moment.
- A Third-Party Maintenance Provider: A third-party service provider could also be held responsible if improper maintenance or faulty repairs contributed to the accident.
At Bernard Law Group, we take the time to investigate all potential causes of your accident. By working closely with accident reconstruction specialists and other experts, we build a strong case that identifies all liable parties, ensuring you have the best chance of receiving maximum compensation.
The Importance of Hiring an Experienced Seattle Injury Attorney
When you’re involved in an accident with a self-driving car, it’s vital to have an attorney who understands both traditional personal injury law and the complexities of autonomous vehicle cases. Our team at Bernard Law Group is well-versed in the nuances of autonomous vehicle technology, insurance policies, and legal precedents that may apply.
As your Seattle injury attorney, we provide personalized representation and legal insight to handle these cutting-edge cases. We fight tirelessly to make sure you are compensated for all your damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Including surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and future medical costs related to your injury.
- Lost Wages: If your injury leaves you unable to work, we’ll seek compensation for your lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: We recognize the emotional toll an accident can take and will fight for compensation for your pain and suffering.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged, we will seek to recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
Statistics on Seattle Car Accidents Involving Autonomous Vehicles
While autonomous vehicles aim to reduce accidents caused by human error, they are not immune to crashes. According to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), human error accounts for approximately 94% of all crashes. Autonomous vehicles, which remove many human elements from driving, aim to reduce this number significantly. However, accidents involving self-driving cars still occur.
In Seattle, car crashes involving autonomous vehicles are still rare but are increasing as more companies test and deploy these vehicles on our roads. This growing number highlights the importance of having a Seattle self-driving car accident attorney if you are involved in one of these unique accidents.
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Steps to Take After a Self-Driving Car Accident
Here’s what we recommend:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you don’t feel injured, some injuries, like concussions or internal trauma, may not show symptoms right away.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Obtain Contact Information: Get the contact information of all parties involved, including the human operator (if applicable), witnesses, and anyone else who can provide relevant information.
- Report the Accident: Call the police and file a report. This report will be crucial in building your case.
- Contact a Seattle Self-Driving Car Accident Attorney: The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can begin working on your case. We will gather evidence, speak with experts, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive full compensation.
Why Choose Bernard Law Group as Your Accident Lawyer in Seattle?
At Bernard Law Group, we are committed to providing our clients with compassionate and aggressive legal representation. We understand how traumatic an accident can be, and we’re here to guide you through every step of the legal process. With decades of experience as a trusted accident lawyer in Seattle, we’ve helped thousands of clients get the compensation they need to move forward with their lives.
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t owe us a penny unless we win your case. You can rest easy knowing we’re fighting for your best interests at every turn.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a self-driving car, don’t wait. Contact Bernard Law Group today to speak with a Seattle self-driving car accident attorney. We offer free consultations and are ready to help you navigate the complexities of autonomous vehicle law. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
