Self-driving car accidents present unique legal challenges, and determining fault depends on several factors. Contact us today.
The rise of self-driving vehicles brings a new legal challenge: determining liability when an autonomous car is involved in an accident. Unlike traditional car crashes, where the driver is typically responsible, self-driving vehicle accidents introduce multiple parties that could be at fault, including vehicle manufacturers, software developers, and even third-party service providers.
Need legal advice? Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm today for a free consultation.
Are Self-Driving Cars Legal in Missouri?
Missouri does not currently have comprehensive regulations for autonomous vehicles (AVs). However, the state follows general vehicle liability laws, meaning that self-driving cars are still subject to standard negligence and product liability principles (Missouri Department of Transportation).
Missouri currently allows self-driving cars to operate under federal guidelines, particularly those set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) (NHTSA Guidelines).
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Self-Driving Car Accident?
1. The Human Driver or Vehicle Operator
Even in autonomous mode, most self-driving cars require a human driver to be present. If a driver was:
- Distracted and failed to take control when required
- Impaired while operating a vehicle in self-driving mode
- Negligent in maintaining control of the vehicle
They could be held liable under Missouri’s comparative negligence laws, which allow victims to recover damages based on the percentage of fault assigned to each party (Missouri Revised Statutes).
2. The Vehicle Manufacturer
If a self-driving car crashes due to a design defect, faulty sensor, or software failure, the manufacturer could be held accountable under product liability laws. Examples include:
- Tesla’s Autopilot system being investigated after multiple crashes (National Transportation Safety Board)
- Uber’s self-driving vehicle accident in Arizona due to faulty software design (National Safety Council)
Missouri law allows victims to sue manufacturers under strict liability, meaning the injured party does not need to prove negligence—only that the defect caused the crash.
3. Software Developers & AI Designers
Self-driving cars use complex artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to make split-second decisions. Third-party software companies may be held liable if a coding error or software malfunction leads to a crash. This includes:
- Faulty navigation causes a car to misinterpret road signs
- Glitches that prevent the vehicle from detecting pedestrians or cyclists
- Poorly trained AI leads to dangerous decision-making
Software liability is a new legal frontier, but Missouri courts may treat it similarly to defective product lawsuits.
4. The Rideshare or Fleet Company
If the self-driving vehicle is owned by a rideshare company (e.g., Uber, Lyft) or a commercial fleet (e.g., delivery services), the company could be liable for:
- Failing to update the vehicle’s software
- Negligent hiring if a human safety driver was present
- Ignoring safety warnings about a vehicle’s autonomous system
5. Government Entities
Local or state government agencies could share liability if a self-driving car crashes due to poorly maintained roads, missing traffic signals, or inaccurate GPS data. However, suing a government agency in Missouri involves sovereign immunity laws, which place strict limitations on when and how a lawsuit can be filed (Missouri Tort Claims Act)
How Missouri’s Fault Laws Apply to Self-Driving Car Accidents
Missouri follows a pure comparative negligence system, meaning accident victims can recover damages even if they are partially at fault. However, their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault.
For example:
- A pedestrian hit by a self-driving car is awarded $100,000 in damages.
- The court finds the pedestrian 20% at fault for jaywalking.
- The pedestrian receives $80,000 instead of the full amount.
This system applies to human drivers, manufacturers, and even software companies, depending on their level of responsibility in a crash.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Self-Driving Car Accident in Missouri
1. Call the Police
A police report is crucial in determining fault. Officers will document road conditions, vehicle data, and any driver statements.
2. Collect Evidence
- Take photos of the accident scene and damages.
- Get witness statements from anyone who saw the crash.
- Obtain vehicle data (some self-driving cars record accident logs).
3. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, injuries from autonomous vehicle accidents can appear later. Get checked by a doctor and keep all medical records.
4. Contact a Missouri Car Accident Attorney
Because self-driving car accidents involve complex liability issues, you need a lawyer experienced in personal injury and product liability claims. An attorney can:
- Investigate who is truly responsible (driver, manufacturer, software developer, etc.)
- Secure vehicle data logs and accident reports
- Negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation
The Future of Self-Driving Car Laws in Missouri
As autonomous vehicle technology advances, Missouri lawmakers may introduce new regulations to clarify liability. Some states, like California, require AV companies to submit crash reports to the state, and Missouri may follow suit.
Additionally, federal regulations from the NHTSA are expected to set nationwide standards for self-driving car liability. Staying informed about these laws can help Missouri drivers and accident victims navigate future claims more effectively.
Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm Today
Self-driving car accidents present unique legal challenges, and determining fault depends on several factors, from software malfunctions to driver negligence. In Missouri, liability can fall on drivers, manufacturers, software companies, or government agencies.
If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a self-driving vehicle, it’s crucial to consult an experienced Missouri car accident attorney to understand your rights and maximize your compensation.
Need legal advice? Contact The Hoffmann Law Firm today for a free consultation.