Personal Injury Law Blog

As self-driving cars become a more common sight on the roads, many people are excited about the potential benefits. From reducing traffic congestion to providing enhanced mobility for the elderly and disabled, these vehicles can have a positive impact. However, recent studies reveal a growing concern among Americans regarding the safety and reliability of these autonomous vehicles. A survey conducted in January by Forbes Advisor found that 93 percent of people have concerns about self-driving cars, particularly safety and technology glitches.

One of the most alarming findings of the survey is that self-driving vehicles are involved in double the number of accidents per mile driven compared to traditional vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that there are 9.1 crashes per million vehicle miles driven in driverless vehicles, compared to 4.2 collisions in regular vehicles. These statistics highlight the risks associated with self-driving technology, which proponents often claim will reduce motor vehicle accidents by eliminating human error.

Tesla, a leading name in the autonomous vehicle industry, has been at the center of numerous safety and technology recalls. A recent NHTSA investigation revealed almost 1,000 crashes occurred while Tesla’s autopilot was engaged, leading to the recall of almost every car Tesla has sold in the United States. The recalls have further fueled consumer distrust, with 62 percent of respondents indicating they have lost confidence in Tesla’s technology.

Consumer skepticism extends beyond Tesla to the entire self-driving car industry. The Forbes Advisor survey found that only 12 percent of Americans are very trusting of autonomous vehicle technology, while 46 percent are somewhat or very untrusting. Concerns about safety, technology malfunctions and the potential for hacking are among the top reasons for this distrust. Additionally, 61 percent of survey respondents indicated they would not feel safe allowing a self-driving car to transport their family members.

Despite the potential benefits of self-driving cars, the high accident rates and widespread consumer concerns suggest that adoption of this technology may be slower than anticipated. McKinsey & Co., a global consulting firm, predicts that only 12 percent of new passenger vehicles will be equipped with advanced self-driving technologies by 2030. The number is expected to increase to 37 percent by 2035, but self-driving cars will still constitute a small percentage of all passenger vehicles sold.

The potential risks of self-driving cars also extend to technology malfunctions. These can range from software glitches to sensor failures, which can compromise the vehicle’s ability to navigate safely. For instance, if a self-driving car’s sensors fail to detect a pedestrian, the consequences can be catastrophic. Around 36 percent of survey participants said they did not trust autonomous vehicles to keep pedestrians and drivers safe on the road.

Similarly, software bugs can lead to erratic driving behavior, increasing the likelihood of an accident. Such malfunctions highlight the importance of rigorous testing and quality control in developing autonomous vehicle technology.

Another aspect to consider is the legal landscape surrounding self-driving cars. As this technology is relatively new, laws and regulations are still evolving. In the event of an accident involving a self-driving car, determining liability can be complex. Is the manufacturer responsible for a software malfunction? Or is the vehicle owner at fault for not maintaining the system properly? These questions can make personal injury claims involving self-driving cars more complicated than those involving traditional vehicles.

The future of self-driving cars remains uncertain. While there is potential for significant benefits, the current reality is that these vehicles pose substantial risks. Consumers are right to be cautious and skeptical, especially given the high accident rates and numerous recalls associated with autonomous vehicles.

If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a self-driving car, it is crucial to understand your rights and seek legal assistance to navigate the complexities of such cases. The involvement of autonomous vehicles in a crash means there may be unique factors to consider in personal injury claims.

At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we are committed to protecting the rights of individuals who have been injured in car accidents. Our law firm always stays informed about the latest developments that could impact our clients. Discuss your situation with an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer who can help you understand your legal options for pursuing compensation. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.