With self-driving cars being so new, there is not enough data to gauge just how safe, or dangerous, they exactly are. Though, the past couple of years alone have reported hundreds of accidents involving self-driving cars. Read on to discover what commonly causes this to occur and how a seasoned San Mateo County, California car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Allister R. Liao can help you through your situation.
What commonly causes self-driving car accidents to occur?
Automotive engineers are working toward creating self-driving cars that are fully automated that can operate without a driver. The reasoning behind this is to eliminate the risk of human error that commonly causes car accidents to occur. However, the irony in all this is that human error can still have a hand in a self-driving car accident.
For example, self-driving car manufacturers are supposed to ensure that automated brakes and mechanical parts are free of any defects or malfunctions before sending them off into the market. When they neglect to do so, or when they neglect to send out a recall for faulty parts, then an accident may occur.
Another example involves the operators of self-driving cars. Importantly, self-driving cars are not driverless yet, so operators must stay alert and take control of the vehicle when necessary. When they fail to do so, by sleeping, texting, eating, or otherwise being distracted behind the wheel, then they may be responsible for an accident occurring.
What is the statute of limitations for a car accident claim?
If you were involved in a self-driving car accident due to no fault of your own, then you must file an insurance claim to receive compensation for your damages. However, self-driving cars are uncharted territory for insurance companies. And so, they may be reluctant to give you your full payout, or any at all.
This is when you must pursue legal action via a personal injury claim. You must bring your claim forward before the state of Florida’s statute of limitations. Generally speaking, this deadline tends to be two years from the date of a car accident. And if this deadline passes, you will be permanently barred from suing and ultimately from recovering your damages.
This is why you must not hesitate in retaining the services of a competent San Mateo County, California motor vehicle accident lawyer. Call to schedule your free initial consultation with us today.
