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Emerging Vehicle Technologies and Liability: From Advanced Driver Assistance to Self-Driving Features

Technology is changing the way we drive or, in some cases, how we don’t drive at all. Cars are smarter than ever, with features that take over tasks once handled by human drivers. But when these systems fail, who’s responsible?

Tech companies and automakers claim these systems are the future. But they’re not the ones dealing with the consequences when something goes wrong. You are. And when insurance companies, manufacturers, and software developers start pointing fingers, getting justice can feel impossible.

That’s why you need a lawyer who knows how to fight back. If an automated system caused your accident, The Desai Firm can help you get the compensation you deserve. Schedule a consultation with our Morgantown car accident attorneys today.

Key Emerging Vehicle Technologies

Autonomous and Semi-Autonomous Vehicles

Self-driving technology has been at the center of legal debates for years. Companies like Tesla, Waymo, and GM’s Cruise market these vehicles as safer than human drivers, but the reality tells a different story.

Accidents involving autonomous vehicles have led to serious injuries and even deaths, raising the question: Who is responsible when a self-driving car crashes?

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

ADAS features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control are meant to make driving safer. But when they malfunction, the results can be catastrophic.

When ADAS fails, automakers and software providers will often blame the driver, arguing they should have taken control. But if a system is marketed as reducing human error, why is the driver held responsible when it doesn’t perform as promised? A car accident attorney can challenge these tactics and fight for the compensation victims deserve.

Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Battery Technology

Electric vehicles have introduced a whole new set of risks, particularly regarding battery safety.

Connected and Smart Vehicles

Modern vehicles are essentially computers on wheels. They rely on internet connections, GPS, and cloud-based software to function. But with this connectivity comes new dangers.

AI and Predictive Analytics in Driving

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used to predict and prevent accidents. However, when AI fails, the consequences can be severe.

When AI makes a mistake, the human driver often gets blamed—even if they had no way of knowing the system would fail. That’s why legal representation is critical in these cases.

Liability Considerations in Emerging Vehicle Technologies

Liability Laws w.r.t Emerging Vehicle Technologies

​In recent years, West Virginia has proactively addressed the integration of autonomous vehicles (AVs) by enacting the Fully Autonomous Vehicle Act. To ensure accountability, the Act mandates that any fully autonomous vehicle operating without a human driver must have liability insurance or self-insurance that satisfies existing state insurance laws. Additionally, operators are required to submit a law enforcement interaction plan to the Department of Transportation. This plan outlines communication protocols with fleet support specialists, procedures for safely removing the vehicle from the roadway, and methods to recognize whether the vehicle is in autonomous mode.

Every year, car companies push out new features designed to revolutionize driving. But when those features fail, they rely on outdated legal tactics to avoid taking responsibility. The attorneys at The Desai Firm stay ahead of the trends. We know how vehicle automation works, how liability laws are changing, and what it takes to prove fault when manufacturers or software companies try to shift blame. We take on corporations that put profits over safety—and we win.

Don’t wait for insurance companies to dictate your next move. Take control by calling us at (304) 974-1974, or tell us your story online.