Autonomous vehicles (AVs), often called self-driving cars, are no longer a futuristic concept. In California, especially in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and other tech-forward cities, autonomous cars are already sharing the road with traditional vehicles. Companies like Waymo, Cruise, and Tesla have made headlines by testing and deploying self-driving technology, and lawmakers are working to keep up with the rapid changes.

But with innovation comes risk. What happens when an autonomous vehicle is involved in an accident? Who is responsible? The manufacturer, the software company, the operator, or another driver? And how do you file a claim when liability isn’t as clear as in a typical car crash?

This guide breaks down how to handle claims involving autonomous vehicle accidents in California so you can understand your rights, navigate the legal process, and protect your future.

The Rise of Autonomous Vehicles in California

California has been at the forefront of the autonomous vehicle revolution. The California DMV has issued permits to dozens of companies to test and deploy AVs on public roads. You may already see self-driving cars in parts of Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Jose.

While these vehicles promise fewer accidents in the long run due to reduced human error, the technology is not perfect. Malfunctions, software glitches, sensor errors, and operator misuse have already led to accidents, sometimes with serious injuries or even fatalities.

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What Makes Autonomous Vehicle Accident Claims Different?

Traditional car accident claims usually involve two main parties: the drivers. Liability is determined based on negligence, who ran a red light, who was speeding, and who failed to yield.

But with autonomous vehicles, the situation is more complex:

• Multiple Potentially Liable Parties: In addition to the driver, manufacturers, software developers, and even third-party maintenance providers may be responsible.
  
  
• Technology-Specific Evidence: Accident reconstruction may require reviewing sensor data, software logs, or updates to the AV system.
  
  
• Unsettled Law: Autonomous vehicle regulation is still evolving, and courts are adapting to these new claims.
  
  

This makes pursuing compensation after a self-driving car accident much more complicated than a typical case.

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Who Can Be Held Liable in an Autonomous Vehicle Accident?

California law continues to evolve, but potential liability in self-driving car accidents may fall on:

1. The Human Operator
   
   
   
   • Even with “autopilot” features, drivers often must stay alert and ready to take control. Failure to do so may constitute negligence.
     
     
2. The Manufacturer
   
   
   
   • If a defect in the vehicle (such as brakes, tires, or steering) caused the crash, the automaker may be held responsible under product liability law.
     
     
3. The Software Developer
   
   
   
   • Malfunctions in navigation systems, sensors, or decision-making algorithms may result in liability for the company behind the technology.
     
     
4. Fleet Owners or Operators
   
   
   
   • In cases involving rideshare companies using autonomous vehicles, the company operating the fleet may share liability.
     
     
5. Third-Party Maintenance Providers
   
   
   
   • If improper maintenance or repair work contributed to the accident, liability may extend to the service provider.
     
     

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Steps to Take After an Autonomous Vehicle Accident in California

The aftermath of an AV accident can be confusing. Here’s what you should do immediately:

1. Prioritize Safety and Health

Move to a safe location if possible and call 911. Seek medical attention right away, even if you feel fine, since injuries like concussions may not be immediately obvious.

2. Report the Accident to Authorities

In California, you must report accidents involving injury or significant property damage. For autonomous vehicle crashes, law enforcement will also document whether a self-driving system was engaged.

3. Gather Evidence

• Take photos of the scene, vehicles, and any injuries.
  
  
• Record the make, model, and license plate of the AV.
  
  
• Note whether the vehicle appeared to be in autonomous mode.
  
  

4. Collect Witness Information

Eyewitness accounts can be critical, especially if there are questions about whether the operator was paying attention.

5. Avoid Giving Statements to Insurance Companies Without Legal Help

Insurance adjusters may try to downplay liability or shift blame. In complex cases involving AVs, it’s especially important not to agree to recorded statements without legal representation.

6. Contact an Experienced Attorney

A lawyer with knowledge of autonomous vehicle accidents in California can help preserve key evidence (like software logs), identify all liable parties, and guide you through the claims process. Contact Esther The Lawyer for a FREE consultation!

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Challenges in Autonomous Vehicle Claims

Pursuing compensation in AV accidents can involve unique hurdles:

• Access to Data: Critical evidence is often stored in “black box” recorders or proprietary software that manufacturers may be reluctant to share.
  
  
• Insurance Complications: Determining whether coverage comes from the operator, manufacturer, or fleet company can delay claims.
  
  
• New Legal Territory: Courts are still developing standards for fault in AV crashes, which means outcomes can be unpredictable.
  
  

Because of these challenges, it’s essential to work with a lawyer who understands both California personal injury law and emerging technology issues.

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What Damages Can You Recover After an Autonomous Vehicle Accident?

Victims of self-driving car accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
  
  
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
  
  
• Property damage
  
  
• Pain and suffering
  
  
• Emotional distress
  
  
• Wrongful death damages (if applicable)
  
  

The value of your claim depends on the severity of the injuries, the degree of negligence involved, and the available insurance coverage.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Autonomous Vehicle Accidents in California

Do self-driving cars eliminate driver liability?
No. In most cases, human operators must remain alert and ready to take control. If they fail to act, they can still be held responsible.

Can I sue the manufacturer if an autonomous vehicle malfunctions?
Yes. If the accident was caused by a design flaw, manufacturing defect, or software malfunction, you may have a product liability claim.

What if the self-driving car was part of a rideshare fleet?
The company operating the fleet may share liability. Large corporations may also have greater resources to cover damages.

Do autonomous vehicles make fewer accidents?
Studies suggest AVs may reduce certain types of crashes, but they are not immune to causing serious accidents, especially in complex urban environments.

How long do I have to file a claim?
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. If a government entity is involved, you may have as little as six months.

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Quick Legal Terms Explained

Autonomous Vehicle (AV): A car equipped with self-driving technology that can operate without constant human input.
Product Liability: Legal responsibility of a manufacturer or seller for defective products.
Duty of Care: The legal obligation to act with reasonable safety to avoid causing harm.
Comparative Negligence: California law that allows shared fault, even if you’re partially at fault, you may still recover damages.

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Quick Tip

If you are in an accident with a self-driving car, request that all electronic data from the vehicle be preserved immediately. This information can be crucial to proving your claim and may disappear if not addressed promptly.

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Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

If you or a loved one was injured in an autonomous vehicle accident in California, don’t wait. These cases are complex, and acting quickly can make the difference in securing key evidence and building a strong case.

Contact Esther The Lawyer for a free consultation and get the support you deserve.

📞 Phone: +1 (323) 922-5086
📧 Email: info@estradalawgroup.com
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Let Esther The Lawyer help you get answers, accountability, and peace of mind.

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