Chicago Self-Driving Vehicle Accident Lawyer
It seems like we’ve been anticipating self-driving vehicles on Chicago roadways for quite some time, but the rollout has been slower than anticipated. However, testing of self-driving vehicles has occurred in the city, not to mention most modern vehicles have some sort of autonomous driving feature.
At Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC, we are here to help when you need a Chicago self-driving vehicle accident lawyer by your side. These claims are nuanced and relatively new, so turn to an attorney with extensive experience handling tough car accident claims.
Self-Driving Vehicles in Chicago and Illinois
Self-driving vehicles are becoming more prevalent, though their integration into Chicago’s traffic system is gradual. These vehicles utilize advanced technologies like sensors, eye motion detection technology, cameras, and artificial intelligence to navigate roads and avoid obstacles. Testing of these vehicles in Chicago involves strict regulations to ensure safety. Illinois has implemented specific guidelines for autonomous vehicle testing, requiring permits and detailed reporting of test results and any incidents.
The purpose of these tests is to assess the technology’s safety and reliability in real-world conditions. The goal is to eventually deploy fully autonomous vehicles that can operate without human intervention. However, as these tests continue, accidents involving self-driving vehicles can and do happen, raising complex legal issues regarding liability and compensation.
Semi-Autonomous Vehicle Collisions
Semi-autonomous vehicles, which have some level of self-driving capability, are already on the streets of Chicago. These vehicles are classified by the level of autonomy they possess, ranging from Level 1, which includes basic driver assistance features like cruise control, to Level 5, which is fully autonomous without any need for human intervention.
Most vehicles on the road today are Level 2 or Level 3, which require human supervision but can handle certain driving tasks autonomously. For example, Tesla’s Autopilot and GM’s Super Cruise are popular semi-autonomous systems that provide automated steering, acceleration, and braking under specific conditions.
The increasing presence of these vehicles introduces new risks. Semi-autonomous systems can fail or be misused by drivers, leading to accidents. The complexity of these systems means that determining liability in collisions can be challenging. It often involves analyzing whether the human driver, the vehicle’s software, or another party is at fault.
Proving Liability and Recovering Compensation
Establishing liability in a self-driving vehicle accident involves several factors. First, it must be determined whether the accident was due to human error, such as misuse of the autonomous features or distracted driving. Alternatively, the vehicle’s technology may be at fault, which can involve software malfunctions or sensor failures.
In cases where a defect in the autonomous system caused the accident, the vehicle manufacturer or software developer might be liable. This requires a thorough investigation and often expert testimony to pinpoint the exact cause of the malfunction. Additionally, if poor road conditions or inadequate signage contributed to the accident, local government entities could be held responsible.
Recovering compensation for injuries and damages sustained in a self-driving vehicle accident can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. Navigating these claims can be complex due to the involvement of cutting-edge technology and the interplay of multiple parties. Therefore, it is essential to have legal representation from a lawyer experienced in handling such intricate cases.
Contact a Chicago Self-Driving Accident Lawyer
Navigating the legal landscape of self-driving vehicle accidents requires specialized knowledge and expertise. At Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC, our team is well-versed in the nuances of these claims and prepared to advocate for your rights. We understand the challenges involved and are dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (312) 586-1700 for a free consultation.