Self-driving cars are becoming more prevalent on the roads with companies like Tesla, BMW, and even Uber launching autonomous models. While these vehicles are being promoted as the wave of the future, promising safer and more efficient transportation – accidents involving these autonomous vehicles can and do still occur. Complicating matters is the question of who caused the crash if no one was behind the wheel, which can quickly lead to confusion and uncertainty about legal issues such as at-fault “driver” and liability assessments.
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Are Self-Driving Cars Legal in Arizona?
Yes, driverless cars are legal in Arizona. In 2015, Arizona Governor Doug Ducey issued an executive order that outlined regulations for allowing self-driving vehicles in the state. This order, which was a significant step in the state’s embrace of autonomous vehicle technology, allows companies to test and operate self-driving cars on Arizona’s public roads with fewer regulatory hurdles than those found in other states. Most notably, in our region, Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., has been testing autonomous semi-trucks along the I-10 corridor between Phoenix and Tucson.
How Many Self-Driving Car Accidents Have There Been?
From 2019 to June 2024, there were 3,979 autonomous vehicle incidents in Arizona, resulting in 496 injuries and fatalities. Below are some of the notable occurrences:
- February 2016: A self-driving car made by Google crashes on its first drive into a bus
- May 7, 2016: Tesla vehicle with autopilot feature causes its first death in an accident
- Before 2018: 37 crashes involving Uber’s self-driving cars
- November 30, 2018: Uber self-driving vehicle gets into an accident, killing a pedestrian
- April 2019: Tesla self-driving vehicle crashed into a tree, killing two men
- May 2021: Waymo self-driving taxi takes off and collides with several vehicles in Phoenix
- Between July 2021 and May 2022, six crashes resulted in deaths, with five serious injuries, 22 moderate injuries, 19 minor injuries, and 46 crashes with no reported injuries.
- In May 2024, there were eight Waymo driverless crashes in Arizona, five in Phoenix, and one each in Tempe, Gilbert, and Scottsdale. The crashes occurred in parking lots and on the roads.
Do I Need an Attorney for a Self-Driving Car Accident in Arizona?
Hiring a self-driving car accident attorney is advisable due to the complexities involved. An attorney can help you with:
- Complex Liability: Identifying all parties responsible, including manufacturers and software developers.
- Self-Driving Car Law Expertise: Self-driving car accidents require an in-depth understanding of the evolving laws and regulations governing this new technology.
- Insurance Claims: Managing the unique aspects of insurance for self-driving cars.
- Court Representation: Advocating for you in court against well-resourced opposition.
Complex Liability & Legal Matters
Autonomous vehicle accidents often involve multiple parties, including software developers, fleet operators, vehicle manufacturers, and other drivers. Due to the unique nature of this technology and its interactions with human drivers, determining liability in these cases can be challenging. A knowledgeable attorney can thoroughly investigate the causes of the accident, identify all potentially responsible parties, and hold them accountable for their role in causing harm.
Expertise in Arizona Self-Driving Car Laws
Navigating the legal complexities surrounding self-driving car accidents requires a deep understanding of the evolving laws and regulations governing this technology. A skilled attorney specializing in this area will have up-to-date knowledge of relevant statutes and precedents, allowing them to advocate for their client’s rights effectively. They can also anticipate potential challenges and devise strategic legal approaches to maximize compensation for injuries and property damage.
Insurance Claims
In the aftermath of a self-driving car accident, insurance companies may try to minimize their liability by shifting blame onto the victim or disputing the extent of damages. An experienced attorney can counter these tactics by building a solid case supported by evidence, expert testimony, and persuasive arguments. They can negotiate with insurers on behalf of their clients to ensure they receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Professional Representation in Court
In some instances, self-driving car accident cases may need to be resolved through litigation if insurance settlements are inadequate or disputed. Having a skilled attorney In YOUR Corner during court proceedings is essential for presenting a compelling case before judges or juries. They can handle all aspects of trial preparation, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, drafting legal briefs, and delivering persuasive arguments in court. They aim to secure a favorable outcome for their clients that reflects the full extent of their injuries and losses.
Why Hire an attorney for Your Self-Driving Car Accident Claim?
Hiring an Arizona self-driving car accident attorney is essential due to autonomous vehicle cases’ technical complexities and legal nuances. An attorney can ensure that you receive fair treatment from insurance companies and that all potential sources of compensation are pursued. Who you hire to represent you can make a substantial difference in the outcome of your case. You must choose your law firm carefully when so much is on the line. Here are a few reasons to consider in determining an attorney to handle your self-driving car accident case:
Experience: Understanding the law is one thing, but knowing how to make the law work for your clients takes years of hard-won experience. Our firm has practiced law for decades, and that history makes us better advocates for our clients. We will use all our combined knowledge and expertise to protect your rights after an accident.
Results: The best way to judge a law firm is by the results it achieves for its clients. We are proud of our track record and have secured hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. While we cannot promise you any particular amount for your injuries, we will fight the insurance company for every dollar of compensation you are owed.
Client reviews: Would you trust a mechanic if you knew people regularly had bad experiences at their shop? Probably not. Our clients rave about us in their reviews.
Our approach: We pride ourselves on the complexity of our cases and our collaborative approach. Lawsuits involving self-driving vehicles are a relatively new field of litigation, one of which we are at the forefront.
Our resources: We have an extensive network of support personnel to meet your legal needs. No matter what kind of help you need or when you need it, we will do whatever we can to simplify your life and ease the burden of your injuries.
Don’t DELAY: Call Jeff GOULD Law, the Attorney In YOUR Corner – TODAY!
DISCLAIMER: The information on this blog/site is not intended to be legal advice. It is for general informational use only. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your situation. Further, this information does not create an attorney-client relationship.