Not too long ago, self-driving cars felt like something that would be so far out in the future. However, here in Charlotte, North Carolina, they are so prevalent that we even have a Tesla dealership. While commercials tout cars that parallel park on their own and let you know when you are drifting out of your lane or apply the brakes to avoid a rear-end impact, there are still no truly self-driving cars…. yet.

So what happens if you are driving down Charlotte’s Freedom Drive and a self-driving car coming in the opposite direction turns left in front of you at its intersection with Ashley Road?

Chances are if the other vehicle was making a left turn, it was not in true “self-driving” mode, but even if it were, most likely any injuries incurred as a result of the accident would be claimed against the automobile liability insurance for the owner of the vehicle first, then the driver of the vehicle if different than the vehicle owner—the same as it would be in any car accident in Charlotte, North Carolina.

However, suppose the accident resulted in catastrophic injury or death. In that case, it may be necessary to look to whether the vehicle was in self-driving mode or other auto-pilot function and whether that feature malfunctioned. Then it would turn the claim into a possible products liability claim and an automobile personal injury claim.

That is why it is essential to have experienced car accident attorneys in Charlotte, like the ones at the Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, PC, on your side.