Detroit Self-Driving Car Accident Lawyers

Self-Driving Car Accident Claims In Michigan

The rise of self-driving cars has changed the way we think and use transportation in Michigan. However, with new technology comes new legal problems. Traffic accidents involving self-driving cars are becoming increasingly common, and the aftermath can be painful for those involved. Determining fault, understanding insurance responsibilities, and navigating Michigan’s car accident laws are overwhelming for accident victims.

At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we stand ready to help you understand your valuable legal rights and pursue the financial compensation your case deserves. Insurance companies know we fight relentlessly for our clients and won’t settle for less than what you’re owed. With over 180 years of combined experience, our team has helped more than 25,000 Michigan families recover from accidents and secure fair settlements. Our goal is simple – to get you more than any other lawyer would. We offer free, confidential consultations, and you won’t owe us anything unless we win your case.

Common Scenarios In Self-Driving Car Accidents

Self-driving car accidents can happen in various ways, each with its own legal implications. Some common scenarios include:

Vehicle Malfunction – If the self-driving system fails due to a design or manufacturing defect, the vehicle manufacturer or software developer may be held liable.
Human Override – Although marketed as autonomous, many self-driving cars still allow human intervention. If the driver makes an error while overriding the system, they may be responsible for the accident.
Pedestrian Accidents – Self-driving vehicles are equipped with sensors to detect pedestrians. Tragically, these systems are not foolproof. These tragic accidents raise questions about who is at fault.
Multi-Vehicle Collisions – When a self-driving vehicle causes a chain reaction accident, determining liability will involve multiple parties, including manufacturers, drivers, and third-party service providers.
Poor Road Conditions – Self-driving cars rely on road markings and signs. If these are unclear or poorly maintained, questions of liability may extend to government entities responsible for road upkeep.

How Michigan Car Accident Laws Apply To Self-Driving Vehicles

Michigan’s laws regarding car accidents are primarily based on the concept of fault and no-fault insurance. Here’s how these apply to self-driving car accidents:

No-Fault Insurance – Michigan’s no-fault system mandates that all drivers carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. This covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs regardless of who caused the accident.
Product Liability – If a self-driving car’s malfunction caused the accident, product liability laws come into play. Under Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) 2945, manufacturers and sellers might be held liable for defective products.
Negligence – In cases where the driver of a self-driving car acted negligently by overriding the system, Michigan’s comparative fault rule (MCL 600.2959) determines each party’s percentage of fault and adjusts damages accordingly.

Determining Fault In Self-Driving Car Accidents

Determining fault in Michigan self-driving car accidents is more complex than in traditional collisions. It may involve multiple parties, including:

Vehicle Manufacturers – Responsible for defects in hardware or software.
Drivers – Liable if they override the system or fail to maintain the vehicle properly.
Third-Party Providers – Companies supplying navigation systems or data may bear some responsibility if their systems fail.
Government Entities – If poor road conditions contribute to the accident, liability could extend to state or local authorities.

Our attorneys analyze every detail of your case to identify the responsible parties and build a strong claim.

Compensation For Self-Driving Car Accident Victims

Victims of self-driving car accidents may recover compensation for:

Medical Expenses – Current and future costs of treatment.
Lost Wages – Income lost due to inability to work.
Pain And Suffering – Monetary compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
Property Damage – Costs to fix or replace your motor vehicle.
Wrongful Death – Financial compensation for families who have lost a loved one in a fatal accident.

At Ravid & Associates, we work tirelessly to ensure you receive maximum compensation for your injuries.

Steps To Take After A Self-Driving Car Accident

If you’re involved in a self-driving car accident, taking the right steps can strengthen your claim:

Seek Medical Attention – Your health must be your top priority. No matter how you feel, seek medical attention. Your medical records will serve as evidence of your injuries.
Call The Police – A police report provides an official account of the accident.
Gather Evidence – Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses.
Do Not Admit Fault – Avoid making statements that could be used against you.
Contact An Attorney – Legal guidance is crucial to protecting your rights and ensuring fair compensation.

Why Choose Ravid & Associates For Your Self-Driving Car Accident Case?

Self-driving car accidents are uncharted territory for many attorneys, but our team has the experience and resources to handle these complex cases. Insurance companies fear lawyers like us because they know we will fight relentlessly for our clients. We don’t settle for less than you deserve, and we won’t hesitate to take your case to trial if necessary. With over 180 years of combined experience, we’ve recovered substantial compensation for Michigan families, and we’re ready to do the same for you.

FAQs About Detroit Self-Driving Car Accidents

Who Is Responsible For A Self-Driving Car Accident?

Determining liability in a Michigan self-driving car accident can involve multiple parties. The vehicle manufacturer may be at fault if the accident was caused by a defect in the car’s hardware or software. The driver could also be responsible if they improperly intervened in the car’s operation. Additionally, third-party providers or government entities might share liability depending on the circumstances. Michigan law requires a thorough investigation to establish fault and determine compensation.

Does Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance Cover Self-Driving Car Accidents?

Yes, Michigan’s no-fault insurance applies to self-driving car accidents. This means your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance will cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs, regardless of who was at fault. However, if your damages exceed the limits of your PIP coverage, you may file a lawsuit against the responsible parties to recover additional compensation.

Can I Sue The Manufacturer If A Self-Driving Car Malfunctioned?

Under Michigan product liability laws (MCL 600.2945), you can sue the manufacturer if a defect in the vehicle caused the accident. This could include hardware malfunctions, software errors, or design flaws. To succeed, you must prove that the defect directly caused the accident and your injuries. Our attorneys can help gather the evidence needed to build a strong case.

How Long Do I Have To File A Claim For A Self-Driving Car Accident In Michigan?

Under Michigan law, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident (MCL 600.5805). However, certain factors could affect this timeline, so it’s important to act quickly. Waiting too long could jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.

Can I Recover Compensation For Pain And Suffering After A Self-Driving Car Accident?

Yes, Michigan law allows victims to recover non-economic damages like pain and suffering if the accident caused serious impairment of body function, permanent disfigurement, or death. Our attorneys can help determine whether you meet the criteria and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.

Our Detroit Self-Driving Car Accident Lawyers Fight For Justice In Michigan

If you or a loved one has been injured in a self-driving car accident, Ravid & Associates, P.C. is here to help. We understand the complexities of these cases and are committed to holding the responsible parties accountable. Let us put our 180+ years of combined experience to work for you.

Contact our Detroit self-driving car accident lawyers at Ravid & Associates, P.C. today by calling (248) 948-9696 to receive your free consultation. Remember, you won’t pay a dime unless we win your case. We proudly serve clients in Detroit and throughout Michigan from our Southfield office.