Self-driving cars, once a futuristic concept, are now sharing the roads with everyday drivers in South Carolina. With major manufacturers rolling out advanced driver-assistance systems and pilot programs for autonomous vehicles expanding nationwide, the legal landscape is rapidly evolving. But with innovation comes uncertainty especially when these vehicles are involved in accidents.
If you were injured in a crash involving a self-driving or semi-autonomous vehicle, you may be wondering who’s responsible and what your legal rights are. This guide breaks down the essential information you need to know about self-driving car accidents in South Carolina and how to protect yourself if you’re involved in one.
Understanding Self-Driving Technology
Before diving into the legal implications, it’s important to define what qualifies as a “self-driving” vehicle. Not all autonomous systems are created equal. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) categorizes automation into six levels:
- Level 0–2: The driver is still responsible. Features like lane assist and adaptive cruise control are considered support functions.
- Level 3: The car can handle some driving functions under certain conditions but may require human intervention.
- Level 4: Full autonomy in specific environments (like city driving or highways), with no driver input required during operation.
- Level 5: Complete autonomy in all conditions no steering wheel needed.
Most vehicles currently on the road in South Carolina are Level 2 or 3, meaning the driver still plays a role in operation. That distinction is critical when it comes to assigning legal responsibility.
Who Is Liable in a Self-Driving Car Crash?
Liability in self-driving car accidents depends heavily on the level of automation and the cause of the crash. Here are potential parties that could be held accountable:
- The Driver: If the vehicle was operating in a mode that still required human supervision (as most do today), the driver may still be at fault for distracted or negligent behavior.
- The Vehicle Manufacturer: In cases where the crash was caused by a failure in the autonomous system, the carmaker could face liability under product defect laws.
- The Software Developer: If a third-party company developed faulty navigation or AI software, they could be held partially responsible.
- Maintenance Providers: Improper repairs or sensor misalignment may point to negligence by the mechanic or dealership.
Determining fault requires a thorough investigation of vehicle logs, software performance data, and driver activity at the time of the accident. That’s why it’s essential to have legal representation familiar with this emerging field.
What Causes Self-Driving Cars to Crash?
Despite the promise of improved safety, autonomous vehicles are not immune to malfunction or error. Some of the most common causes of self-driving car crashes include:
- Sensor failure: If the vehicle fails to detect an object, pedestrian, or traffic signal due to faulty radar or cameras, it may not react in time.
- Software glitches: A bug in the driving logic or navigation system can cause the car to accelerate, brake, or swerve unexpectedly.
- Improper human intervention: Many self-driving systems require the driver to take over in emergencies, and failure to do so can lead to collisions.
- Misinformation from the environment: Road signs, lane markings, or GPS errors can confuse the system.
Crashes involving autonomous vehicles often raise complex legal questions that go far beyond standard driver negligence.
South Carolina’s Approach to Autonomous Vehicles
As of now, South Carolina has not passed comprehensive laws regulating autonomous vehicles. However, these key points currently apply:
- Testing is allowed under certain conditions, but fully autonomous vehicles are not widely deployed across the state.
- Drivers are still legally responsible in most circumstances unless the vehicle is classified as fully autonomous and operated within a permitted program.
- Traditional insurance laws still apply, though coverage complexities may arise if software or hardware malfunctions are to blame.
The lack of established legislation means each case is often treated individually, depending on available evidence and the level of vehicle autonomy involved.
What to Do If You’re Involved in an Accident with a Self-Driving Car
If you’re in a crash involving a vehicle with autonomous features whether you’re a pedestrian, cyclist, or another driver taking the right steps immediately can make a significant difference in your claim.
- Call 911: Always report the accident and request a police report.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries develop over time. Your health comes first, and documentation supports your case.
- Collect evidence:
- Take photos of the vehicles, surroundings, and damage
- Record the vehicle’s make, model, and license plate
- If possible, note the type of driving technology in use (e.g., autopilot mode)
- Take photos of the vehicles, surroundings, and damage
- Identify witnesses: Get contact information from bystanders who saw the crash.
- Avoid admitting fault: Stick to the facts when speaking with law enforcement or insurance adjusters.
- Contact an attorney: A lawyer can launch an investigation into the vehicle’s technology and manufacturer, preserving crucial digital evidence that may not be available later.
Legal Representation Is Critical in Autonomous Vehicle Cases
Accidents involving self-driving cars are more complicated than standard collisions. They often require:
- Interpretation of vehicle data logs
- Analysis of manufacturer safety updates and recalls
- Testimony on software design or engineering failures
- Coordination with federal safety agencies and insurance providers
At Ted Law Firm, we have experience handling cutting-edge personal injury cases involving technology failures, corporate negligence, and product liability. Our team understands what it takes to go up against automakers, insurers, and tech firms when automated systems fail to keep people safe.
Why Act Quickly?
Time is a crucial factor in self-driving car accident claims. Vehicle data can be overwritten or lost, and manufacturers may act quickly to limit their liability. Engaging a legal team immediately allows:
- Preservation of electronic evidence from the vehicle
- Collection of analysis before systems are repaired or updated
- Early negotiation with insurers based on complete data
In South Carolina, the standard statute of limitations for personal injury cases is three years, but in complex cases involving commercial entities, earlier action is always better.
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
At Ted Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case. Contact us today for a free consultation, or stop by one of our conveniently located South Carolina offices in Charleston, Greenville, Columbia, Aiken, or Mrtyle Beach so we can discuss your case face-to-face. Remember, you pay nothing unless we win your case, so there is no harm in scheduling a free consultation. You’re in good hands with Ted Law Firm.
