Who is Responsible for Self-Driving Car Accidents in NYC?

 

Yes, Waymo is currently testing up to eight driverless vehicles in parts of Manhattan and downtown Brooklyn, having received permits from the NYC Department of Transportation and the State DMV in August 2025. This is a limited pilot program, and these vehicles are operating with a trained safety specialist behind the wheel. There is no public, paid driverless taxi service available to New Yorkers yet, as this is a preliminary testing phase. That said, driverless vehicles will soon be driving around Queens, so it’s important to understand the legal aspects of this rollout. This article provides some guidelines, but it’s always important to speak to an experienced Queens car accident attorney as soon as possible after an accident that causes an injury.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Self-Driving Car Accident?

Determining fault in a self-driving car crash in Queens and Brooklyn can be more complex than in a traditional accident. Potentially liable parties may include:

●       The Human Driver: If the driver misuses or ignores warnings from the system, they can still be responsible.

●       The Vehicle Manufacturer: Design or mechanical defects in the car can make the manufacturer liable.

●       The Software Company: Flaws in autonomous driving software may shift responsibility to developers.

●       Other Drivers or Third Parties: Just like in regular accidents, another driver’s negligence may be the cause.

These overlapping factors make it difficult for victims to know who should be held accountable. Consulting with an experienced car accident lawyer Queens and Brooklyn can help identify the responsible party and get the compensation you deserve.

What Should You Do If You’re Involved in a Self-Driving Car Accident?

If you are in a collision involving a self-driving or semi-autonomous vehicle, you should:

●       Call emergency services and seek medical attention immediately.

●       Document the scene with photos and videos if possible.

●       Obtain the police report and gather witness information.

●       Immediately consult the best Queens car accident attorney and traffic accident attorney so that deadlines are met and rights are not forfeited.

Can You Sue for Damages?

Yes. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to file a claim against the other driver, the manufacturer, or even the software company. These cases may involve negligence or product liability claims, both of which require strong evidence and expert legal representation. Car accident lawyers in Queens and Brooklyn can guide you through the entire process and advocate for the compensation you deserve.

Read More: https://www.wittenstein.com/who-is-responsible-for-self-driving-car-accidents-in-nyc/

 

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