Car accidents involving self-driving cars are a growing concern for Florida drivers. However, legal liability isn’t always clear. As companies race to put self-driving cars on the roads, the laws are struggling to keep up. If you’re in an accident with a self-driving car, you need to know who is liable. Our Tampa car accident attorneys explain car accidents involving self-driving cars.
Car Accidents Involving Self-Driving Cars
Car accidents involving self-driving cars may be the basis for legal liability. The manufacturer, the vehicle owner or a person in the vehicle may have legal liability for damages to a victim. The State of Florida allows self-driving cars to operate on the roads. However, standards for legal liability still apply. When you’re in an accident that involves a self-driving car, you may receive financial compensation by bringing a legal claim against the responsible party.
What is the Florida Autonomous Vehicle Law?
The Florida autonomous vehicle law is Florida Statute 316.85, which has been in effect since July 2019. Under the law, a person or corporation can put a driverless vehicle on the road. There does not need to be a human operator or even a person present in the car.
Companies that operate autonomous vehicles for commercial purposes must follow the laws that apply to transportation network companies. Car accident laws and product liability laws are still valid parts of Florida’s autonomous vehicle law.