Are Self-Driving Vehicles Safe?

Self-driving vehicles are becoming a reality in communities across the United States. Companies like Tesla, Waymo, and others are rolling out these autonomous vehicles in limited capacities, but with this cutting-edge technology come important questions about safety and liability.
Skilled legal professionals regularly discuss who pays expenses when an accident involves a self-driving vehicle with their clients. If you have questions about this evolving technology and its implications for Pennsylvania and New Jersey residents who are injured in vehicular accidents, connect with a Bucks County personal injury attorney.
Are Self-Driving Vehicles Safe?
Vehicles that are self driving rely on advanced sensors, cameras, and artificial intelligence to navigate roads with minimal or no human intervention. In states like Florida and Arizona, self-driving taxis have already hit the streets in pilot programs. These vehicles promise convenience, reduced emissions, and potentially safer roads by eliminating human error, a leading cause of traffic accidents.
While Pennsylvania and New Jersey haven’t seen widespread deployment of autonomous vehicles yet, testing programs and policy discussions are underway. Pittsburgh, in particular, has become a hub for autonomous vehicle research. It’s likely only a matter of time before we see these vehicles on our local roads.
Safety is a major concern for both advocates and critics of self-driving technology. Proponents argue that these vehicles can eliminate common causes of crashes, such as distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving. That said, self-driving systems are not infallible. Some of the safety risks include:
- Technology failures. Malfunctions in software, sensors, or cameras can cause accidents.
- Human error. Even in autonomous vehicles, human operators may be required to take control in certain situations, and their reactions can be slow or ineffective.
- Unexpected conditions. Poor weather, construction zones, and other variables can confuse autonomous systems.
- Limited testing. Self-driving technology hasn’t been widely tested in all environments, which means unforeseen issues could arise in places like Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
As this technology becomes more common, it’s crucial to understand your rights if you’re injured in an accident involving a self-driving vehicle. Whether the accident occurs in Bucks County or across the bridge in New Jersey, holding the responsible party accountable is essential for your recovery and to promote safer roads for everyone.
Who’s Accountable in an Accident?
Determining liability in accidents involving self-driving vehicles is not always simple. Unlike traditional car accidents, where fault is typically assigned to one or more drivers, autonomous vehicle accidents may involve assessing if the manufacturer of the vehicle, a person monitoring the vehicle, or a third party is to blame.
Whenever a collision occurs, victims of self-driving vehicle accidents can pursue compensation for their injuries, but these cases often require extensive investigation and legal expertise. If you’ve been injured in a PA or NJ crash involving an autonomous vehicle, have a conversion with Bucks County personal injury attorney.
Where were you injured due to technology gone awry? Gave a conversation with the legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. Doing so is key to connecting with the compensation you deserve. Call 215-968-6602.