Switch to ADA Accessible Theme
Close Menu
Free Case Evaluation (941) 747-7994

Automated Driving Systems: Know The Risks And How To Protect Yourself Against Self-Driving Car Accidents In Bradenton

Autopilot8

Autonomous driving systems (ADS) are increasingly incorporated into motor vehicles, offering safety and convenience. However, when features such as automatic braking and lane assist or fully self-driving vehicles malfunction, potentially life-threatening car accidents in Bradenton can happen. Our experienced Bradenton car accident lawyer explains more about self-driving vehicle crash risks and how to protect your rights to compensation.

Self-Driving Car Accidents In Bradenton Increase, Liability A Common Issue In Claims

In 2019, Florida was one of the first states to legalize self-driving cars. Within a few years, the Sarasota/Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization launched Transform 2045, a sprawling plan that includes over 160 miles worth of tech improvements to better accommodate self-driving vehicles.

While Project Transform 2045 aims to protect public safety, the risks remain significant. Whether it involves automated driving systems (ADS) that handle specific tasks or fully self-driving cars, crashes are common and cause potentially devastating injuries.

In the aftermath, proving liability is challenging and a common dispute in injury claims. Those who may be at fault include:

  • The vehicle owner or operator if they failed to monitor automated systems, misused them, or otherwise engaged in reckless behavior;
  • The car manufacturer if a flaw in the self-driving technology contributed to the crash;
  • Software developers, if a glitch or failure in the vehicle’s AI system is responsible for the accident;
  • Other motorists, who may have played a role in causing the collision.

Under Section 316.18 of the Florida Statute, the company or individual who activates the self-driving system is considered the operator, even if they are not behind the wheel during the crash.

How To Protect Your Rights After a Self-Driving Car Accident in Bradenton

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that Florida ranks third highest in the country for autonomous vehicle crashes. If you get hurt in this type of accident, taking the following steps helps protect your health and your legal rights to compensation:

  • Report the accident to law enforcement: A police report is essential for documenting liability.
  • Seek medical attention immediately: Delaying treatment jeopardizes your health and your rights to compensation.
  • Document everything: Use your phone to take photos and videos at the crash site and get contact information for bystanders who may have seen how it happened.
  • Get legal help: Self-driving car accidents involve complex liability issues. Discuss your case with an experienced Bradenton car accident lawyer before making statements to insurers or accepting a settlement.

Contact Our Experienced Bradenton Car Accident Lawyer Today

Self-driving car accidents in Bradenton can cause devastating injuries. As multiple parties may have played a role in causing a crash, these cases present unique legal challenges in terms of proving liability. At the Law Office of Steven G. Lavely, we protect your rights to compensation in a claim.

Board-certified in Civil Trial Law, our experienced Bradenton car accident lawyer provides professional legal representation in these complex cases, taking the actions needed to get you the maximum compensation. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

Sources:

mympo.org/transformtomorrow

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.85.html

nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/2022-06/ADS-SGO-Report-June-2022.pdf