Self-driving cars have become a reality on American roads, with many vehicles now equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that offer autonomous features. While these advancements in technology provide convenience and potential safety benefits, they also raise concerns about the occurrence and handling of self-driving car accidents.
Rahul Razdan with the Florida Polytechnic University Advanced Mobility Institute told Fox13 News, “It’s a very new technology that we are trying to figure out how to show it’s safe. And we don’t know how to do that yet,” Razdan said. There have been more than 30 self-driving car accidents in Florida.
There are unique liability issues involved with self-driving car accidents. If you’ve been injured in a car crash, talk to an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. Call 407-846-2240 for a free consultation
Technology and Self-Driving Car Accidents
Although self-driving cars have garnered significant attention, they are still in the research and testing phase. Currently, Tesla offers vehicles equipped with advanced autonomous features such as auto-steer, auto-park, and cruise control. Other manufacturers like Nissan, Volvo, Cadillac, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes also offer driver-assist technologies that help drivers navigate the roads safely.
Self-driving cars rely on a combination of sensors, computers, and powerful machines to navigate the roads and help prevent self-driving car accidents:
Sensors
Autonomous vehicles utilize a variety of sensors to detect and measure their surroundings. These sensors include video cameras, which identify stop signs, yield signs, pedestrians, and bicycles. Light sensors are used to recognize lane markings and the edges of the road, while radar sensors detect other vehicles on the road.
Computers
The computer serves as the brain of a self-driving car, processing the data collected by the sensors to create a comprehensive image of the vehicle’s environment. This image is then used by sophisticated computer programs to make decisions and control the vehicle accordingly.
One of the main challenges self-driving cars face is the constant change in their surroundings. Even when the vehicle is stationary, other vehicles and objects in the environment continue to move. The computer must continuously analyze new information and be prepared to make emergency maneuvers if necessary.
Vehicles
Self-driving vehicles are specifically designed for autonomous driving and do not have traditional controls like steering wheels or pedals. However, most self-driving features available today are designed to assist human drivers rather than replace them entirely. These features require the driver to share responsibility with the vehicle for safe operation.
The Legal Implications of Self-Driving Car Accidents
As self-driving cars become more prevalent on the roads, the legal landscape surrounding these accidents is evolving. Currently, 34 states in the U.S. have laws or regulations governing the use of self-driving cars, while others are in the process of developing legislation. These laws vary widely, with some states allowing all forms of autonomous vehicles, while others require the presence of a backup driver.
In the event of a self-driving car accident, liability is determined based on the principles of negligence. If the driver failed to take control or was negligent in any way, they may bear partial or full liability. On the other hand, if the car’s sensors, software, or computer were found to be defective, the manufacturer could be held responsible.
Call 407-846-2240 and get a free consultation with an Orlando car accident attorney at the Martinez Manglardi personal injury law firm. We have convenient locations throughout Central Florida, with offices in Orlando, Kissimmee, Apopka, Palm Bay, Ocala, and Haines City. We’ve been helping accident victims in Central Florida recover losses for more than 35 years. Call now.
