Accident Liability in the Era of Self-Driving Cars
Accident Liability in the Era of Self-Driving Cars
Self-driving cars used to sound like something out of a science fiction movie. Now they’re rolling down I-75, US-19, and neighborhood streets across Florida. But when an accident happens, one big question remains: Who’s responsible- the driver, the car, or the company that made it?
Florida allows autonomous vehicles on public roads, even without a human driver. But despite flashy names like “Autopilot,” most systems still require full driver attention.
Imagine this: You’re heading down the highway with your Tesla on Autopilot. Suddenly, the car fails to detect a motorcycle in your blind spot and changes lanes, causing a serious collision. Who’s at fault?
-You? For not paying enough attention?
-Tesla? For a faulty algorithm?
Right now, Florida drivers are still legally responsible, even when the car is “driving itself.” But in some cases, injured victims may have a case against car manufacturers, software developers, and/or parts suppliers.
These are complex cases that require tech knowledge and legal expertise.
So what can you do? If you’re using AI driving features, make sure you stay alert, as these systems are not fully autonomous. Know your car’s limits. And if you’re in a crash, document everything and talk to an attorney.
Technology is changing fast, but the law doesn’t move at the same speed. As more AI-driven vehicles hit the roads in Florida, we’re going to see a rise in complex accident cases where fault isn’t clear-cut.
Chuck and I are here to help you navigate the future of driving and to protect your rights in it. Stay safe out there, and we are always here for you.
Sarah and Chuck