Can Autonomous Vehicle Owners Be Held Liable for Failing to Maintain the Car?

Can Self-Driving Car and Truck Owners Be Held Liable for Neglecting Maintenance?

What happens when one malfunctions and causes a wreck? Just like traditional cars, self-driving vehicles require proper upkeep to function safely. So, if an owner neglects maintenance and their autonomous car causes an accident, can you hold them accountable?

If you’ve been in a wreck involving a self-driving car, it’s important to understand your rights. At 1-800-TruckWreck, we’re here to help you figure out who’s responsible and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Maintenance Matters for Self-Driving Trucks

Self-driving cars are smart, but they’re not foolproof. Their systems—radar, lidar, cameras, and software—need to be in perfect working condition to operate safely. Just like traditional cars, neglecting basic upkeep like cleaning sensors, checking brakes, or updating software can lead to dangerous failures. For example:

• Blocked Sensors: Mud, snow, or debris can prevent cameras or radar from detecting obstacles.
• Outdated Software: Old systems might not respond properly to real-time driving conditions.
• Brake and Tire Failures: Even in autonomous mode, physical components need to be maintained.

If an owner neglects these responsibilities, it puts everyone on the road at risk—and they can be held accountable for that negligence.

Understanding Liability in Self-Driving Car Accidents

Self-driving vehicles rely on advanced technology—sensors, cameras, and software—to navigate roads without human control. While this tech can reduce accidents caused by driver error, it’s not perfect. Here’s where it gets tricky. Who’s responsible if a self-driving car fails due to neglect? Is the owner at fault, or does the blame fall on the manufacturer or technology provider? The answer depends on what caused the accident.

Can Manufacturers or Software Developers Be Liable?

In some cases, the fault may not lie with the owner alone. Self-driving car manufacturers and technology companies could share liability if:

• The vehicle had a software error or programming flaw.
• Sensors or cameras failed due to a design defect.
• The car’s safety systems didn’t alert the owner of needed maintenance.

At 1-800-TruckWreck, we investigate every angle to find out who’s responsible. Whether it’s the owner, the manufacturer, or both, we’ll hold them accountable for your injuries.

What Should You Do After a Self-Driving Car Accident?

If you’ve been involved in a wreck with a self-driving car or truck, here’s what to do:

• Call 911: Get medical attention and report the accident to the police.
• Document the Scene: Take photos and videos of the damage, the self-driving car, and any road conditions.
• Gather Evidence: Get contact information for witnesses and note any visible vehicle malfunctions (like dirty sensors).
• Call 1-800-TruckWreck: Our team can begin investigating immediately to protect your rights.

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Self-Driving Car Wreck?

If you’ve been hurt in a self-driving car accident caused by maintenance neglect, you may be entitled to significant compensation. At 1-800-TruckWreck, we fight to recover damages like:

• Medical Bills: From emergency care to long-term treatments and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: If you can’t work due to your injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: For the physical and emotional toll of the wreck.
• Property Damage: To repair or replace your vehicle.

We know how overwhelming a serious accident can be. That’s why we handle everything—from investigating your case to negotiating with insurance companies—so you can focus on healing.

Contact 1-800-TruckWreck Today for a Free Consultation

If you’ve been hurt in a self-driving car wreck and believe neglected maintenance played a role, don’t wait. Contact 1-800-TruckWreck today for a free consultation. Our experienced lawyers will stand by your side, investigate your case, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

You don’t have to face this alone. Call us now—your journey to justice starts here.