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A New Approach to Personal Injury Law: Honest. Kind. Responsive. Effective.

That’s where we come in. Our lead attorney, Joshua P. Davis, is a double-board-certified personal injury lawyer with over 18 years of experience, more than 100 jury trials won, and a proven track record of fighting for justice. Davis Law Group has built its reputation on putting people first. Our team of skilled attorneys and support staff takes a client-focused approach, emphasizing honesty, responsiveness, and kindness every step of the way. Contact us today to book your case consultation.

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What Causes Self-Driving Car Accidents?

Accidents involving autonomous vehicles bring unique challenges. Liability may involve multiple parties, such as the vehicle manufacturer, software developer, or another driver. These cases require a comprehensive understanding of personal injury law, product liability, and insurance regulations. Common causes include the following:

  • Sensor or software malfunction
  • Human intervention errors
  • Poor vehicle design or inadequate testing before release
  • External factors, like other drivers or pedestrians, contributing to the crash

Who Can Be Held Legally Liable in Self-Driving Car Accidents?

Vehicle Manufacturer

If the accident was caused by a defect in the self-driving system, such as faulty sensors or software errors, the vehicle manufacturer may be held responsible under product liability laws.

Software Developer

The company that developed the autonomous driving software may be liable if a programming flaw or failure to update the system caused the accident.  

Human Driver/Operator

In cases where a driver was required to monitor the vehicle and failed to intervene, the human operator may share liability for negligence.  

Ride-Sharing Company

The company may be responsible if the self-driving vehicle is part of a ride-sharing service, depending on its policies, maintenance practices, and driver oversight.

Third-Party Driver

Regardless of the self-driving technology involved, if another vehicle’s driver causes the accident, they may be liable.

Vehicle Maintenance Providers

Improper maintenance of the self-driving vehicle, such as failing to calibrate sensors, could result in liability for the maintenance provider.

Government Entities

In rare cases, if poor road conditions or unclear traffic signals contributed to the crash, a government entity responsible for road maintenance may share liability.

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What Compensation Can I Get for a Self-Driving Car Accident in Texas?  

If you’ve been involved in a self-driving car accident in Texas, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation depending on the circumstances of the accident and the damages you’ve suffered. Below are the types of compensation you can pursue:  

  • Emergency room visits  
  • Hospital stays  
  • Surgeries or procedures  
  • Physical therapy  
  • Prescription medications  
  • Future medical expenses  
  • Compensation for lost income during recovery  
  • Loss of earning capacity if unable to return to work

Other potential compensation includes:  

  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress from the accident, with factors like long-term suffering potentially increasing the claim's value.
  • Property Damage: Costs for repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle and personal property can be recovered.
  • Loss of Consortium: Compensation may be awarded for a spouse or family member's loss of companionship due to severe injuries.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or malicious behavior, punitive damages may be awarded to penalize the at-fault party.

If a loved one was tragically killed in a self-driving car accident, surviving family members might pursue compensation for:  

  • Funeral and burial costs  
  • Loss of financial support  
  • Emotional suffering and loss of companionship

How Do I Know If I Have a Self-Driving Car Accident Case?  

Was the Accident Caused by Negligence or Faulty Technology?

A self-driving car accident case typically arises when negligence or a defect in the autonomous vehicle’s systems contributes to the crash.

Did You Suffer Damages?

To pursue a case, you must have suffered damages as a result of the accident, such as physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial losses.

Do You Have Evidence?

Substantial evidence is crucial to building a successful case. This can include:  

  • Accident reports  
  • Vehicle data logs from the self-driving system  
  • Witness statements  
  • Photos or videos from the crash scene  
  • Medical records detailing your injuries
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Our Approach: Compassionate Advocacy Meets Cutting-Edge Knowledge

Davis Law Group was founded on the principle of improving lives after traumatic events. Whether we’re working with individuals, families, or small businesses, our mission remains the same: to deliver effective legal representation with kindness and compassion.

While our mission remains the same, our team understands that no two cases are alike. We take the time to listen to your story, provide honest advice, and develop a strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. By combining technical expertise with heartfelt advocacy, we’ve earned the trust of countless clients throughout Houston and beyond.

Here’s just some of what sets us apart:

  • Experience You Can Trust: Joshua P. Davis and our team bring nearly two decades of courtroom success to every case.
  • Client-Centered Approach: Our focus is always on your well-being, offering personalized guidance and clear communication.
  • Commitment to Innovation: We stay updated on laws governing self-driving technology to provide the highest level of representation.
  • Community Impact: Beyond the courtroom, our firm actively gives back to Houston through charitable initiatives and volunteer work.

If you’ve been injured in a self-driving vehicle accident, don’t face this battle alone. Contact Davis Law Group today for a consultation and discover how our innovative, client-centered approach can make a difference in your life.

Self-Driving Car Accident FAQ

What Should I Do Immediately After a Self-Driving Car Accident?

How Do Self-Driving Cars Record Accident Data?

Can I Sue a Self-Driving Car Manufacturer Directly?

Are Self-Driving Cars Covered by Insurance?

Are There Specific Laws Governing Self-Driving Cars in Texas?

Can Pedestrians File a Claim After Being Hit by a Self-Driving Car?

Can I Pursue a Claim If I Share Partial Fault for the Accident?

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Self-Driving Car Accident in Texas?

Can I Settle My Case Out of Court?

How Can Davis Law Group Help with My Case?

What Should I Do Immediately After a Self-Driving Car Accident?

After ensuring your safety, follow these steps:

  • Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical attention
  • Document the scene with photos and videos, including damages and road conditions
  • Gather contact information from witnesses and other parties involved
  • Request access to the vehicle’s data logs
  • Contact an experienced self-driving car accident attorney to protect your rights

How Do Self-Driving Cars Record Accident Data?

Self-driving vehicles use event data recorders (EDRs), similar to a 'black box,' and advanced sensors to log driving data before and during an accident. This information can include speed, braking patterns, and sensor inputs, which are critical for determining liability.

Can I Sue a Self-Driving Car Manufacturer Directly?

Yes, you can file a product liability lawsuit against the manufacturer if a defect in the vehicle or its software caused the accident. An attorney will help prove that the defect directly contributed to the crash and your damages.

Are Self-Driving Cars Covered by Insurance?

Yes, self-driving cars are typically insured. Liability coverage may extend to the manufacturer, operator, or ride-sharing company, depending on the vehicle’s ownership and use. Your attorney can identify which insurance policy applies to your case.

Are There Specific Laws Governing Self-Driving Cars in Texas?

Texas has laws supporting autonomous vehicles' operation, including safety compliance requirements and the ability to operate without a human driver under certain conditions. However, determining liability and navigating these laws require legal expertise in this evolving field.

Can Pedestrians File a Claim After Being Hit by a Self-Driving Car?

Yes, pedestrians injured by self-driving cars can file claims against the liable parties, including the vehicle’s manufacturer, operator, or owner. A thorough investigation is essential to identify the at-fault party.

Can I Pursue a Claim If I Share Partial Fault for the Accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can pursue a claim if you are less than 51% at fault, but your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Self-Driving Car Accident in Texas?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. Consulting an attorney as soon as possible ensures you don’t miss this critical deadline.

Can I Settle My Case Out of Court?

Yes, many self-driving car accident cases are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies or responsible parties. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney can pursue litigation on your behalf.

How Can Davis Law Group Help with My Case?

At Davis Law Group, we:

  • Conduct detailed investigations to gather evidence
  • Identify all liable parties, including manufacturers and third parties
  • Negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation
  • Advocate for you in court if needed

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