Self-driving trucks and cars feel futuristic and exciting to many individuals, and technology and scientists have made significant progress toward vehicle automation. However, most individuals are aware that automated driving is still less than perfect, no matter how in awe of the technology they are. The idea of getting into an accident with an automated truck may feel strange or scary, but what do you do if it happens to you or someone you know? Who is responsible for the costs and losses?
If you have been in an accident with an automated driving truck, you may need some assistance in holding the correct parties accountable. Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C.’s lawyers are talented, working extensively with proven resources and strategies to make a difference in their clients’ lives. If you need more information about how to approach your accident and any claims, we may be able to help.
Who is At-Fault for an Automated Driving Accident?
Determining fault for an automated driving accident may be difficult, but it may also be necessary in order to take legal action and receive the recovery you deserve. Any of the following parties may be responsible for your losses:
- Vehicle or parts manufacturer
- Distracting passenger
- Another driver
- Certain pedestrians
- City or state government
- Truck driver
- Truck driver’s employer
- Automation manufacturer
In some cases, more than one party may be responsible for your losses. To hold the liable parties accountable, we recommend getting help from a qualified lawyer in your area.
What Does Automated Driving in Trucks Look Like?
According to a recent Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) study, these features, like adaptive cruise control and active lane keeping, highly depend on whether motorists accept and choose to use them. The adaptive cruise control maintains a set speed and following distance from the vehicle in front of it. Active lane-keeping offers sustained steering input to keep a vehicle within its lane.
The study looked at how 51 employees of IIHS and the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI) viewed those features after using them in a selection of vehicles. They agreed to use the features during a period that lasted from one day to three weeks.
While some systems on the market are better than others, there is no clear winner the IIHS recommends to drivers. The study is also inconclusive, deciding that the efficiency and quality of these features are imperfect at preventing or eliminating all accidents. Automated driving is not flawless, meaning there are still significant risks of accidents. These accidents are especially likely if a driver is not alert enough to override the system and make necessary changes the systems are still unable to catch.
What Should You Do After an Automated Driving Accident?
Following an accident, including those involving automated driving, you may feel overwhelmed by the idea of navigating the legal process. Please consider our suggestions if you want assistance strategizing a robust approach for your claims. These may be especially beneficial if you wish to receive adequate compensation and intend to take legal action against the responsible parties.
Seek Medical Attention
If you have been in any incident that may have resulted in injury, we recommend seeking medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you do not notice any apparent damages, your doctor may be able to identify underlying causes for concern and recommend treatment before your condition worsens. Your healthcare practitioner may also help identify potential causes of your wounds.
Seeking medical attention is also highly beneficial if you intend to take legal action. Showing an intention to recover fully bodes well for most individuals during court proceedings. Additionally, a doctor’s note and an itemized medical bill may assist you in accurately portraying your version of events and receiving adequate compensation for your losses.
Speak With a Lawyer
We recommend speaking with and retaining a personal injury lawyer for assistance if you have been in an accident, especially if you face significant damages. Your attorney may be able to assist you in several ways during the legal process, including the following:
- Legal knowledge and suggestions
- Negotiation tactics
- Handle insurance companies and other legal representatives
- Speak on your behalf
- Complete and file paperwork
- Maintain your schedule and appointments
- Join or lead investigations
- Collect and assess evidence
- Strategize strong next steps
- Construct arguments in your favor
- Increase the value of your case
- Refer you to helpful professionals, including doctors and specialists
- Provide you with valuable resources and information
- Reduce your overall stress levels
Please refrain from representing yourself during the legal process whenever possible, as self-representation comes with risks of misrepresentation and loss of fair compensation. Your lawyer is far more likely to represent you fairly and favorably, as well as help you obtain the recovery you need.
We also recommend speaking with an attorney as soon as possible to improve your likelihood of fair representation and results. Your lawyer will need sufficient time to collect evidence and build arguments in your favor, so please do not hesitate to get in touch with a lawyer immediately.
Automated Driving Accident? Speak With Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C.’s Personal Injury Lawyers Today
If you have been in an accident with an automated or self-driving truck, you may benefit from working with lawyers at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. Our lawyers are dedicated to serving their clients, bringing them the results and compensation they deserve to heal fully. We work hard and commit ourselves to fight for deserving victims, and we may be able to do the same for you.
To get in touch with our dedicated and hard-working team, please call (215) 822-7575 or complete our contact form, whichever you prefer. Contacting us is a great way to express concerns, describe your circumstances, and receive additional helpful information. We look forward to hearing from you and working together on your claim.
Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford P.C.
Pennsylvania Attorney's
December 27, 2022
