Phoenix Self-Driving Car Accident Attorneys
As Waymo autonomous robotaxis become more prevalent on our local roads, accidents involving these vehicles are also on the rise. In such cases, it is crucial for accident victims to have the right legal representation from top Phoenix self-driving car accident attorneys that know how to skillfully navigate the complex Arizona legal system.
Were you hurt in a wreck caused by a Waymo self-driving car? Contact Lerner and Rowe 24/7 for a free consultation.
You may be entitled to compensation that our award-winning legal team is prepared to go after on your behalf. We get results for our clients.
Waymo Self-Driving Robotaxis Debut In Arizona
Waymo self-driving robotaxis arrived in the downtown Phoenix, Chandler, and Tempe areas in 2023. Since then, the range of these passenger–only vehicles now covers 180 square miles of pick up and drop off taxi services, including Phoenix’s Sky Harbor Airport.
However, despite the perceived conveniences offered by Waymo’s fleet of driverless cars, there are still public concerns related to crash prevention and liability. Specifically, is it safe to ride in an autonomous vehicle? And, what recourse does a passenger and/or other vehicle occupants have if a Waymo self-driving vehicle collides with another car?
Who Is Liable in a Self-driving Car Accident?
Determining liability in a self-driving car accident depends on various factors. Those factors include the specific circumstances of the accident, as well as a variety of different parties.
Here are some potential parties who may be held liable after a Phoenix self-driving car wreck:
- Manufacturer: If the accident occurred due to a defect in the self-driving car’s technology or design, the manufacturer of the autonomous vehicle may be held responsible. This could include issues with sensors or other component failures that contributed to the accident.
- Software Developer: If the accident was caused by a software glitch or programming error, the company responsible for developing the self-driving software may be held liable. Errors in the vehicle’s decision-making algorithms or failure to detect obstacles could fall under this category.
- Vehicle Owner/Operator: In some cases, the owner or operator of the self-driving car may be held liable if they failed to properly maintain or operate the vehicle. This could include situations where the owner/operator failed to update the software, ignored safety warnings, or be present and ready to take control during an emergency.
- Third Parties: Other drivers, pedestrians, or entities involved in the accident may share liability if their negligent actions contributed to the collision. For example, if a human-driven vehicle collided with a self-driving car due to the other driver’s recklessness, they may be partially responsible.
- Government Agencies: Depending on the circumstances, government agencies responsible for regulating self-driving vehicles and ensuring their safety may be held liable. This could be the case if there were issues with licensing, permitting, or oversight of autonomous vehicle operations.
With so many factors to take into account, It is advisable to consult with experienced self-driving car accident injury attorneys in Phoenix. They will know how to assess the specifics of your accident case, establish fault, and determine who should be held liable for injuries and other damages.
What Types of Damages Can I Seek in a Self-driving Car Accident Lawsuit?
In a self-driving car accident lawsuit, you may be eligible to seek various types of damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: You can seek compensation for current and future medical expenses resulting from the accident. This includes costs related to hospitalization, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, therapy, and any necessary ongoing medical care.
- Property Damage: If your vehicle or other property was damaged in the accident, you can seek compensation for the repair or replacement costs.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: If the injuries from the accident have caused you to miss work, you can claim compensation for the wages you lost during your recovery period. Additionally, if the injuries have impacted your ability to earn income in the future, you may be able to seek compensation for the loss of earning capacity under Arizona law.
- Pain and Suffering: This category of damages accounts for the physical pain and emotional suffering you have experienced as a result of the accident and its aftermath. It includes both the immediate pain and any long-term consequences such as chronic pain or emotional distress.
- Emotional Distress: If the accident caused severe emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you may be able to seek compensation for the psychological impact of the incident.
- Loss of Consortium: In some cases, the spouse or family members of the injured party may be entitled to seek compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, or support resulting from the injuries sustained in the self-driving car accident.
It’s important to note that the availability and extent of damages may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific details of your case. Consulting with skilled Phoenix self-driving car accident attorneys will help you understand which damages you can seek based on your circumstances and the applicable laws.
How Can a Lawyer Help After a Waymo Passenger Car Wreck?
Having a knowledgeable and dedicated attorney by your side can significantly increase your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome and fair compensation in your self-driving car accident case.
Here are five ways a Phoenix self-driving car accident attorney can help you after a wreck:
- Investigating the accident, gathering evidence, and determining liability.
- Assessing the extent of your damages and calculating fair compensation.
- Negotiating with insurance companies and other parties involved.
- Representing your best interests in court, if necessary.
- Providing guidance and support throughout the legal process.
What Evidence Is Important in a Self-driving Car Accident Case?
The following types of evidence can be crucial in a Phoenix self-driving car accident case:
- Accident reports filed by law enforcement.
- Photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and injuries.
- Eyewitness testimonies and contact information.
- Expert opinions from accident reconstruction specialists and technology experts.
- Maintenance records and data logs from the autonomous vehicle.
- Medical records documenting injuries and treatment.
- Any available surveillance footage or dashboard camera recordings.
Is There a Time Limit to File a Lawsuit after a Self-driving Car Accident?
Yes, there is a time limit, known as the statute of limitations, for filing a lawsuit after a self-driving car accident. In the state of Arizona you typically have two years to file a legal claim for your bodily injuries.
Contact Our Phoenix Self-Driving Accident Attorneys Day or Night
For prompt and timely attention from self-driving car accident lawyers, please contact our personal injury law firm directly by phone, LiveChat, or online form.
We are well-equipped to handle cases of any size. No matter the scale, we are here for you. Don’t face insurance companies alone—leave them to our capable team so that you can focus on healing and get back on your feet. You have nothing to lose by contacting us now for a free consultation! Especially since you don’t have to pay us a cent until we win your case.