Self-driving vehicles are not a futuristic concept. They are becoming increasingly common in Austin, Texas. However, when a self-driving vehicle malfunctions, fails to recognize a hazard, or operates unpredictably, it can cause a serious car accident in Austin.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash involving a self-driving car, you may be facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and an uncertain future. The experienced team at Anderson Injury Lawyers is here to help. Contact us today at (512) 399-5000 for a free consultation with an Austin self-driving car accident lawyer.
How Anderson Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Self-Driving Car Accident in Austin, TX
Self-driving car accidents often involve complex questions about liability, technology, and insurance. At Anderson Injury Lawyers, we have the experience and resources to handle these challenging claims.
When you hire our Austin car accident lawyers, we will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash
- Identify all potentially liable parties
- Work with accident reconstruction and technical experts when needed
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies and other parties
- Fight for the maximum compensation available for your injuries and losses
Our team has recovered more than $100 million for injured clients, and we are committed to providing the personalized representation you deserve throughout your case. Contact our Austin personal injury lawyers today for a free case review.
What Is My Self-Driving Car Accident Case Worth in Texas?
Every self-driving vehicle accident case is unique.
The value of your claim can depend on a number of factors, like:
- The severity of your injuries
- The cost of medical treatment
- Future medical expenses
- Lost income
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability
- Disfigurement
Cases involving catastrophic injuries or wrongful death often result in significantly greater compensation than cases involving less severe injuries.
What Kinds of Damages Are Available to Self-Driving Car Accident Victims in Austin?
Texas law allows injured accident victims to pursue various forms of compensation. Common damages include:
Economic Damages
Economic damages compensate victims for measurable financial losses, such as:
- Emergency room bills
- Hospital expenses
- Surgery costs
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Physical therapy
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Property damage
These damages help restore the financial losses caused by an accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages compensate victims for losses that are more difficult to quantify.
Examples include:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent impairment
- Disfigurement
Serious injuries may affect many aspects of a person’s life beyond their financial losses.
Wrongful Death Damages
When a self-driving vehicle accident results in a fatality, surviving family members can be entitled to pursue compensation under Texas law. These damages provide compensation for funeral expenses, loss of consortium, and loss of future income.
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Self-Driving Car Accident Lawyer in Austin?
At Anderson Injury Lawyers, personal injury cases are generally handled on a contingency fee basis.
This fee structure means:
- No upfront attorney fees
- No hourly legal bills
- No attorney fees unless compensation is recovered for you
This fee arrangement levels the playing field for injury victims. It allows victims to pursue justice without worrying about immediate legal costs.
Can I Recover Compensation If I’m Being Blamed for the Self-Driving Car Accident in Texas?
Possibly. Texas follows a modified comparative fault system. Under this rule, an injured person may still recover compensation if they share some responsibility for the accident. However, you must be less than 51% responsible for the accident. Compensation may be reduced according to your percentage of liability.
Insurance companies may attempt to shift blame by arguing that a victim:
- Failed to avoid the collision
- Was distracted
- Violated traffic laws
- Contributed to the accident in some way
An attorney can help challenge unfair fault allegations. Your attorney’s job is to protect your right to compensation.
How Long Do I Have to File a Self-Driving Car Accident Lawsuit in Texas?
In most cases, Texas law gives you two years from the date of a self-driving car accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to seek compensation. Some exceptions may apply, and different deadlines can apply if a government entity is involved.
Because autonomous vehicle cases often require preserving electronic data and investigating multiple potentially liable parties, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Contact an Austin Self-Driving Car Accident Lawyer to Schedule a Free Consultation Today
Self-driving vehicle accidents present unique challenges that may require technical expertise. Determining who is responsible can involve software developers, manufacturers, technology companies, and insurance carriers.
You don’t have to face this challenging legal situation alone. If you have been injured in a self-driving car accident in Austin, don’t hesitate to get help. Contact Anderson Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation with an Austin self-driving car accident attorney.