An autonomous vehicle, also known as a “self-driving” car, refers to any motor vehicle that uses technology to perform all driving functions rather than relying on a human driver. Now that autonomous vehicles are a part of everyday life in New Mexico, it is important to understand what to expect from accident cases involving these cars. You may need to hire an autonomous vehicle accident attorney in Albuquerque to help you navigate your claim.
Why Do Autonomous Vehicles Crash?
Autonomous vehicles can get into automobile accidents in New Mexico for many reasons. Like typical car accidents, human errors can contribute to these disasters. Unlike standard collisions, however, autonomous vehicles may get into accidents due to their self-driving technology. A car accident lawyer can determine the cause of your autonomous vehicle crash.
Operator Error
Most autonomous vehicles are not fully self-driving; they require human operators to supervise the technology and take control in hazardous conditions. If a driver negligently fails to supervise an autonomous car’s performance, he or she can face liability (financial responsibility) for a related car accident.
Technical Malfunction
Since autonomous vehicles debuted on public roads, many have been involved in car accidents related to their self-driving or driver-assist technologies. Examples include software glitches and bugs, sensor malfunctions, and hardware failures. System errors can cause collisions with other drivers, fixed objects, cyclists and pedestrians.
Part Defect
If an autonomous vehicle contains any defective parts, including its software, this increases the risk of a collision. Examples include bad brakes, engine failures, software problems and faulty tires. Auto manufacturers are responsible for adequately testing their products and parts before releasing them to the public.
Autonomous vehicle technologies have come a long way in recent years. However, they still have a lot of ground to cover in terms of guaranteeing public safety. In the meantime, serious car accidents have occurred while autonomous vehicles were tested, debuted and driven by consumers.
Who Is Liable for an Autonomous Vehicle Accident in New Mexico?
New Mexico is a fault state, which means the state’s insurance system allows an injured crash victim to file a claim against the driver or party responsible for causing the collision. Autonomous vehicle accident cases are unique in that they do not only involve drivers; other parties may also play a role, including the manufacturer of the self-driving car or technology.
Possible defendants in an autonomous vehicle case include:
- A human driver, operator or supervisor
- The owner of the autonomous car, truck, van or vehicle
- The maker of the self-driving car
- The manufacturer or distributor of a defective part
- The software development company
- An employer or business
- The government
It can be important to hire an attorney to determine fault and liability for your autonomous vehicle accident in New Mexico. A lawyer can investigate the crash to search for all potential defendants, providing you with as many opportunities as possible to recover compensation from insurance companies.
How a Car Accident Attorney Can Help
As someone who has been injured in an autonomous vehicle accident in New Mexico, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your medical bills, property repairs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. One or more parties could be held accountable for your damages. At The Fine Law Firm, and we can provide you with the legal information and advice you need to maximize your settlement. Our attorneys have more than 50 years of experience and can help you get through the difficult aftermath of an autonomous vehicle crash in New Mexico. Contact us today for a free consultation.