As self-driving cars take to the roads in some parts of the U.S., lawmakers are debating how best to regulate their operation. The lack of consensus and the absence of a clear legal framework creates some confusion when determining who can be liable when fully autonomous vehicles are involved in accidents.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for an Autonomous Vehicle Accident?
Self-driving car accident liability may fall on several parties, depending on the accident’s cause. Potentially liable parties include the car’s owner and operator, the software or hardware manufacturers, and the developers behind the vehicle’s autonomous systems. Additionally, Indiana product liability laws may hold manufacturers responsible when defects in autonomous technology lead to accidents, adding a layer of accountability beyond traditional car accident claims.
It’s critical to point out that despite the marketing names of many driver-assistance systems already offered on production cars, they do not actually provide autonomous or full self-driving capabilities. With the driver-assistance systems currently offered on vehicles sold in Indiana, responsibility for traffic safety still rests with the human driver operating the vehicle. However, even in those situations, bringing a product liability claim against the car manufacturers, developers, and others responsible for the product might be possible.
How Indiana Law Addresses Liability in Self-Driving Car Crashes
Indiana self-driving car laws remain in flux as technology advances. As of fall 2024, the state has no specific statutes governing fully autonomous vehicles. While Indiana lawmakers have proposed some legislation addressing the testing and development of autonomous vehicles, the proposals have not been signed into law, and there are no clear guidelines for fault in accidents involving self-driving cars.
That means in the event of a crash involving an autonomous vehicle, courts may rely on existing negligence and product liability laws to assign fault and hold drivers, manufacturers, or software developers accountable. Because these cases often involve unique issues around technology and control, Indiana law must evolve to meet the challenges autonomous vehicle cases present.
The Role of Manufacturers in Self-Driving Car Accidents
Manufacturers of fully self-driving cars may play a significant role when their vehicles are involved in accidents. When a self-driving car’s system malfunctions or a defect in the vehicle’s technology contributes to a car crash, the manufacturer might face liability under Indiana’s product liability laws. Companies have a responsibility to ensure their autonomous software performs as intended and hardware components operate safely. If an investigation finds that the vehicle’s autonomous technology caused the accident, the manufacturer could be held legally accountable.
Insurance Implications for Self-Driving Car Accidents in Indiana
Can Indiana drivers rely on their insurance for self-driving car accidents? Because fully autonomous cars aren’t allowed on Indiana roads and the law is unclear regarding the regulation of these vehicles, the role of the insurance company in claims following autonomous vehicle accidents will most likely be determined by existing laws regarding negligence and product liability.
While standard liability insurance generally applies, disputes may arise if the car’s autonomous system contributes to a crash. This evolving area of the law means drivers should carefully review their policies to understand how their coverage may apply to self-driving vehicle accidents.
Legal Challenges in Self-Driving Car Accident Claims in Indiana
As recent court rulings and lawmakers seek to establish the scope of car companies’ legal responsibility for self-driving cars, individuals involved in collisions with autonomous vehicles face an uncertain legal path to recovering compensation. That makes it especially critical to secure experienced help from a car accident law firm to assist with your claim.
For assistance with autonomous vehicle accident claims in Indiana, contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Craig, Kelley & Faultless LLC to discuss your situation and learn more about your legal options.
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