Advances in technology can sometimes force lawmakers to propose changes to laws. As vehicular technology has improved, manufacturers have had to adjust their practices to integrate cutting-edge safety systems into their vehicles.
Lawmakers have made certain systems mandatory to ensure better protection for those in motor vehicles. They have also adopted laws that allow those harmed by others to take legal action. Major changes may soon be on the horizon for the commercial transportation sector in particular. Texas is one of the first states to have autonomous, also known as self-driving, semi-trucks operating on public highways.
With the constant stream of commercial trucks crisscrossing the state to bring goods and materials into the country and across the United States, Texas could very well see some of the first collisions involving self-driving commercial trucks. How might self-driving vehicles affect compensation claims?
Reducing the frequency of crashes
The vast majority of motor vehicle collisions involve some kind of significant driver error. Driver mistakes are responsible for commercial crashes as well as collisions between passenger vehicles.
As more early adopters invest in self-driving semi-trucks, the number of tragic collisions involving 18-wheelers and passenger vehicles could potentially decline. With adequate maintenance and appropriate programming, self-driving trucks could significantly reduce the number of people hurt by commercial vehicles.
Shifting liability for crashes
Typically, commercial vehicle collisions lead to liabilities for drivers or their employers. However, liability may be significantly different in cases involving self-driving vehicles.
Manufacturers may be responsible in cases where faulty programming or issues with sensors are what cause preventable semi-truck collisions. Lawmakers in Texas or at the federal level may eventually need to adopt new laws that address liability in cases where self-driving 18-wheelers cause crashes that injure others.
The people affected by semi-truck crashes often face complex claims. Larger insurance policies, more potential parties with liability and catastrophic losses can make trucking collision claims very difficult to navigate.
People involved in collisions with self-driving trucks may need help communicating with insurance companies and determining who may be liable for the incident. Seeking legal guidance can help those pursuing compensation after a collision caused by a self-driving semi-truck explore their options and communicate with transportation companies or insurance providers.
