With self-driving cars, also known as autonomous vehicles (AVs) becoming more common on California roads, the risk of collisions is increasing. But, what happens if you are a passenger using an Uber or Lyft while getting into a crash with an AV? Who will be responsible for your injuries? These questions can raise complicated legal issues involving insurance coverage, accountability, and technology development.
Who Is Responsible for Self-Driving Cars?
Self-driving cars, also referred to as autonomous vehicles (AVs), are built with a combination of software, sensors, and artificial intelligence (AI) to operate with little to no need for human intervention. Although it is created to lessen driver error, accidents are still possible.
In the event of a collision, determining liability will depend on the level of automation and whether the vehicle had a person behind the wheel at the time of the incident. Self-driving cars are usually owned and operated by tech companies, such as Waymo and Tesla. If it causes a crash, the company that manufactured or operated the self-driving vehicle could be held at fault under product liability or negligence laws.
Determining Liability in an Uber or Lyft Accident
Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, but they do have insurance coverage available for passengers involved in an accident. The amount will vary depending on what the rideshare driver was doing at the time of impact:
- If the driver had the passenger in the vehicle, Uber and Lyft will provide up to $1 million in liability coverage.
- If the driver was logged into the app, but did not have the passenger, coverage will include, at least, the following amounts: $50,000 per individual, $100,000 per accident for injuries, and $25,000 in property damage.
- If the driver was offline, their own personal auto insurance will apply .
If an Uber or Lyft driver is struck by a self-driving car, fault will need to be established before the insurance company pays out.
What This Means for Passengers
Injured passengers in a rideshare vehicle may be entitled to compensation regardless of who was at fault for the accident. This is because rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft carry liability insurance that can cover passenger injuries in the event of a crash. Depending on the circumstances, compensation may come from the rideshare driver’s insurance, the other driver’s insurance, or the rideshare company’s own policy. Passengers may be able to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses related to the accident.
Special Considerations with Self-Driving Cars
Unlike human drivers, self-driving cars come with unique challenges when proving liability. Attorneys will often have to subpoena sensor data, data logs, or codes used by the AV to get a clear understanding of what happened. This can be a challenging and lengthy process to complete. Furthermore, if the rideshare accident was due to a defect located within the self-driving system, the AV manufacturer may be held accountable under California’s product liability law.
What to Do After the Rideshare Accident
If you were involved in a rideshare accident with a self-driving car, you can protect your rights by considering the steps sectioned below.
Contact Local Authorities
Reach out to local authorities and ask for a copy of the police report.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you do not believe you sustained a serious injury, you should still get yourself evaluated by a medical professional just to be on the safe side. Your healthcare services will be documented, and can be used if you plan on pursuing a claim against the at-fault party.
Document the Accident Scene
If possible, try to gather as much evidence as you can. This includes photos of the accident and your injuries. Be sure to obtain contact and insurance information from all parties involved as well.
Report the Incident in the App
Use the Uber or Lyft app to submit a report of the incident. A member from the support team will contact you to retrieve additional information, if needed, or provide you with a resolution to help you move forward from the incident.
Consult with an Uber or Lyft Accident Attorney
Rideshare accidents with self-driving cars are legally complex. An Uber or Lyft accident attorney will know how to handle such unique cases by performing the following actions:
- Assess your case
- Obtain crucial data from autonomous vehicles to prove fault
- Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Calculate the value of your claim
- Pursue maximum compensation, whether it be through settlement or trial
The Future of Liability in Self-Driving Accidents
With the ongoing development of autonomous vehicles, state and federal laws are also adapting. California, among other states, are commonly testing AVs, and have already established regulations that highlight reporting requirements and insurance coverage. But, laws are still falling behind with technological advancements, which means liability in a self-driving accident can be unclear.
However, there is good news for rideshare passengers. They are generally well protected by current coverage systems. But navigating such claims, especially if large tech companies are involved, often requires legal assistance.
How West Coast Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers Can Help After a Rideshare Accident Involving a Self-Driving Car
Rideshare accidents involving self-driving cars are still relatively new in the legal field. Questions about liability, what insurance coverage applies, and how to seek compensation are not necessarily straightforward in these cases.
At West Coast Uber and Lyft Accident Lawyers, our team has experience handling complex rideshare accident claims. We can investigate the situation, obtain critical evidence, and negotiate with the insurance companies on your behalf.
To book a FREE consultation, call us at (213) 465-8682 or fill out our easy online contact form.
