Self-driving cars are all the rage these days, but many are unaware of the risks and liabilities that come with this futuristic feature. Self-driving technology is designed for safety and convenience, but it’s not always foolproof.
With technology advancing more and more every day, it’s important to know who is liable when these high-tech features are in use. If you find yourself in an accident involving a self-driving vehicle, Charleston’s own Hoffman Law Firm can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Read on to learn more.
Levels of Autonomous Driving
Many new vehicles come with a variety of safety features designed to help drivers during their travels. For most modern vehicles, “no automation” would be driving only with driver warnings turned on like emergency automatic braking and lane assist. This is considered level zero because the driver is still fully in control of the vehicle.
Level One
Level one automation involves the use of steering assistance or adaptive cruise control, but only when those two features are being used at separate times. This level still requires a highly attentive driver and the ability to quickly turn off driver assistance features when necessary.
Level Two
Level two refers to the partial automation of a vehicle by using steering assistance and adaptive cruise control at the same time. This level still requires a certain amount of driver attention, but not as much as the previous levels.
Level Three
Level three involves what is known as conditional driving automation. Consumers can choose to have the vehicle use this feature, but the vehicle is still the driver’s responsibility. Only some car manufacturers have clearance to make this level of automation.
Level Four
Level four automation is when your vehicle can drive without you in the driver’s seat. The vehicles can have pre-programmed routes in their computer system to know where to go without a driver. There are some self-driving taxis already on the road!
Level Five
Level five is considered a fully automated vehicle that can operate in all weather conditions with or without any passengers present.
Who is Liable in a Self-Driving Car Accident?
When any “self-driving” features are being used in the event of an accident, there’s a chance the liability may shift from the driver to the manufacturer. This doesn’t necessarily mean the driver of a vehicle with automated features will deflect all liability.
It will have to be determined if the accident was caused by a driver error, the vehicle manufacturer, or a defective component of the vehicle.
Risk of Self-Driving Cars
While self-driving technology is only going to increase in popularity, there are risks involved when it comes to self-driving cars.
False Sense of Security
Self-driving cars can give drivers a false sense of security. Relying on automated safety features or driving options can lead to drivers taking their eyes off the road or being less attentive during the drive.
Technology Flaws
Even with the luxury of automated safety features and self-driving technology, there’s still room for error. This technology isn’t perfect and might be subject to malfunction. This could mean steering assistance or adaptive cruise control suddenly disengaging or auto-pilot features failing to brake, leading to the vehicle suddenly losing control or crashing into an object.
Beware of Hackers
Advanced computer systems in self-driving cars can also be vulnerable to cyber-attacks. If a hacker takes over a vehicle’s computer system, the driver is no longer in control and can lead to a potentially dangerous situation.
Navigating Real-Life Driving Scenarios
The split-second changes in road conditions, weather, and driver behaviors are all aspects of the road that are hard to genuinely program into self-driving technology. While many autonomous safety features are pretty intuitive, there are major benefits to relying on a driver’s true reaction to avoid a potentially dangerous situation.
What to Do If an Accident Occurs
If you’ve been in an accident that potentially involves a self-driving car, approach the situation just like you would any other car accident.
Remain calm, check for injuries, and then call 911. Make sure your vehicle is out of the way of traffic and wait for the authorities to arrive. Answer any and all questions asked by the police officer creating the report and remember to get their name and badge number for your own personal documentation.
Exchange numbers and information with the other drivers involved, and take pictures and videos of your damage, the other involved vehicles, the road conditions, and the surrounding location of the accident. Be sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you don’t believe you were injured.
Contact Hoffman Law Firm Today!
Self-driving technology is a new development in the automotive industry and is increasingly becoming more common on the road. In the event of an accident, let our trusted team at Hoffman Law Firm navigate the many details of your case involving a self-driving vehicle.
Located in Charleston, SC, we support accident victims throughout the Palmetto State. We have established a reputation for success, as well as great service! To meet with a member of our team, schedule your free consultation today. Hoffman Law Firm is here to help!
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