As autonomous vehicle technology advances, Texas has become a major player in testing and deploying self-driving cars. Companies such as Tesla, Waymo, Aurora, and others are expanding their presence in cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas. This new technology is raising concerns among Texas self-driving accident attorneys who are already receiving inquiries related to accidents and injuries.
While self-driving technology promises to reduce human error and improve traffic safety, the reality is more complicated. Self-driving vehicles have already been involved in serious accidents, raising concerns about safety, liability, and legal accountability.
At Kherkher Garcia, our attorneys understand the complex and rapidly evolving landscape of self-driving technology and the legal challenges that arise when accidents occur. If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash involving a self-driving or semi-autonomous vehicle, you may be entitled to compensation. Our legal team is here to protect your rights, hold negligent parties accountable, and help you recover.
Self-Driving Cars in Texas
Texas has become a hub for autonomous vehicle innovation due to its favorable regulatory environment. In 2017, the Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 2205, allowing self-driving vehicles to operate on public roads without a driver, steering wheel, or pedals, so long as the vehicles comply with traffic laws and are equipped with proper safety systems.
Several pilot programs and real-world tests are currently operating in Texas. Companies are testing:
- Fully autonomous passenger vehicles (e.g., Waymo, Cruise)
- Autonomous delivery vans and shuttles
- Self-driving freight trucks on major highways like I-45 and I-10
Although these vehicles use advanced sensors, machine learning, and GPS systems to navigate, they are not infallible. Software errors, sensor failures, and unexpected roadway conditions can all result in serious collisions.
Common Causes of Self-Driving Car Accidents
Autonomous vehicles are designed to reduce human error, which is a leading cause of traffic accidents. However, they introduce new risks and technical challenges that can lead to crashes. Common causes of self-driving car accidents include:
Sensor and Software Failures
Self-driving vehicles rely on cameras, radar, lidar, and GPS for navigation. If these systems malfunction or misinterpret data, such as failing to recognize a pedestrian or stopping for a red light, a collision can occur.
Human Error in Semi-Autonomous Modes
Many cars marketed as “self-driving” are actually semi-autonomous, meaning the driver must remain alert and ready to take over. Accidents often occur when drivers overestimate the vehicle’s capabilities and disengage from the driving process.
Poor Road Conditions
Autonomous systems can struggle in adverse weather, low-light conditions, or construction zones where lane markers are obscured or unclear.
Cybersecurity Breaches
As with any connected technology, self-driving cars are vulnerable to hacking. A compromised system can misdirect a vehicle or disable safety features.
Miscommunication with Human Drivers
Autonomous vehicles sometimes behave differently from human-driven cars. For example, stopping abruptly or failing to assert right-of-way, which can lead to rear-end collisions or side-swipes.
Who Is Liable in a Texas Self-Driving Car Accident?
Determining liability in a self-driving car accident can be complex. In traditional vehicle accidents, fault usually lies with one or more drivers. But with autonomous vehicles, liability can extend to:
Vehicle Manufacturers
If a vehicle’s design or software is defective, the manufacturer may be held liable under product liability laws.
Technology Developers
Companies responsible for developing and maintaining self-driving software may be liable if a programming error led to the crash.
Fleet Operators
Rideshare companies or logistics firms operating autonomous fleets may bear responsibility if they failed to properly maintain the vehicle or train human safety drivers.
Human Drivers
If a crash involves a semi-autonomous car and the driver was distracted or impaired, they may still be at fault despite the vehicle’s autonomous features.
Third Parties
In some cases, other road users, government agencies (for failing to maintain roads), or contractors (who provide faulty repairs or misplace signage) may share liability.
Establishing fault often requires an in-depth investigation, expert analysis, and access to vehicle data—something that experienced legal counsel can help with.
Injuries Commonly Reported in Self-Driving Car Accidents
Victims of autonomous vehicle crashes may suffer a wide range of injuries, depending on the nature and severity of the collision. Common injuries include:
- Whiplash and spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Broken bones and fractures
- Lacerations and burns
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
In the most severe cases, self-driving accidents can result in permanent disability or wrongful death. Victims and their families may face a lifetime of medical care, lost income, and emotional hardship.
Compensation Available to Victims
Victims of self-driving car accidents in Texas have the right to seek financial compensation for their losses. The type and amount of compensation will depend on the specifics of the case, but may include:
- Medical expenses (current and future treatment)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability or disfigurement
- Property damage
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Funeral and burial expenses (in wrongful death cases)
In cases where gross negligence or misconduct is involved—such as a known software defect ignored by a manufacturer—punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter future misconduct.
Why You Need a Texas Self-Driving Accident Attorney
Autonomous vehicle litigation involves highly technical evidence, powerful corporate defendants, and an evolving legal landscape. Insurance companies and manufacturers may try to minimize liability, deny fault, or offer lowball settlements. Having a knowledgeable and aggressive legal advocate is essential.
At Kherkher Garcia, our attorneys are at the forefront of emerging liability issues in self-driving and autonomous vehicle technology. Here’s how we can help:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident, including obtaining vehicle data, maintenance logs, and black box recordings.
- Identify all liable parties, whether it’s the manufacturer, operator, or a third party.
- Work with engineers and accident reconstruction experts to build a compelling case.
- Negotiate aggressively with insurers to maximize compensation.
- Take your case to trial, if necessary, to secure the justice you deserve.
Whether you were a passenger in a self-driving vehicle, another motorist, or a pedestrian or cyclist harmed by an autonomous car, you deserve answers and accountability.
Protect Your Rights After a Self-Driving Car Accident
Self-driving cars may be the future of transportation, but when something goes wrong, victims shouldn’t be left in the dark. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident involving a self-driving or semi-autonomous vehicle in Texas, the time to act is now.
Contact Kherkher Garcia today for a free consultation. Our experienced legal team will review your case, explain your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win.
Call 713-333-1030 to start your consultation now. Or, you can submit our online contact form to schedule your consultation or request additional information.
Image by freepik
