The future of driving is arriving faster than most of us ever expected. Self-driving cars, once a futuristic fantasy, are quickly becoming a part of our everyday reality. As developments in artificial intelligence and vehicle automation continue to gain momentum, many experts believe it’s not a matter of if but when automated automobiles take over our roads.
At Herrman and Herrman Personal Injury Lawyers, we believe staying informed is the first step in staying protected. Here’s what you need to know about automation, its promise—and the legal questions it raises.
What Is Vehicle Automation?
Automated vehicles are equipped with sophisticated AI technology designed to handle everything from basic driving tasks to full control of the vehicle without human input. Proponents say the benefits include:
-
Reduced traffic accidents
-
Lower fuel consumption
-
Less congestion
-
Increased mobility for those unable to drive
But as with all new technology, progress comes with risks. From system malfunctions to complex liability questions in the event of an accident, automated vehicles are rewriting the rules of the road—and the courtroom.
The 5 Levels of Automation You Should Know
Understanding how automation is rolled out helps us prepare legally and practically. The Society of Automotive Engineers outlines five levels:
-
Level 1 (Driver Assistance): The car may assist with steering or braking, but you’re still in full control.
-
Level 2 (Partial Automation): The car can steer, accelerate, and brake on its own—but you’re required to monitor it at all times.
-
Level 3 (Conditional Automation): The vehicle can handle most tasks, but may require human intervention in complex scenarios.
-
Level 4 (High Automation): No driver needed in most cases. The vehicle is fully in control unless conditions fall outside its programmed capabilities.
-
Level 5 (Full Automation): No steering wheel, no pedals—just input your destination and enjoy the ride.
Who’s Leading the Charge?
Countries like the United States, Germany, Singapore, and the Netherlands are investing heavily in autonomous vehicle infrastructure and legislation. But while some legal frameworks are emerging, the law often lags behind technology—and that’s where we come in.
Why Legal Representation Still Matters in a Driverless World
Even in a world where machines are behind the wheel, liability doesn’t disappear. In fact, it becomes more complex. If an automated car causes an accident, who’s at fault? The manufacturer? The software developer? The person behind the wheel—even if they weren’t driving?
These aren’t hypothetical questions. They’re already being debated in courtrooms across the country.
At Herrman and Herrman, we stay at the forefront of legal trends and technological advancements. If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash involving a semi-autonomous or fully autonomous vehicle, we’re here to help. Our experienced team knows how to navigate this evolving legal landscape and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Prepare for the Future—Protect Your Rights
Automation is coming. The roads are changing. But one thing remains constant: your right to safety and justice.
Don’t wait until the rules get rewritten around you. If you’re involved in an accident involving vehicle automation—now or in the future—Herrman and Herrman Personal Injury Lawyers are ready to stand by your side.
Contact us today for a free consultation.
CONTACT HERRMAN & HERRMAN IF YOU HAVE BEEN INJURED IN ANY OF THE FOLLOWING TYPES OF ACCIDENTS:
We can help you if you have been harmed by the following:
- Car accidents – Our lawyers have extensive experience handling car accident cases. We will work to identify the party or parties at fault for the crash and build a case to demonstrate persuasively how the parties caused the accident and your injuries. We will seek fair and full compensation through a negotiated settlement or at trial if necessary.
- Truck accidents – Thousands of large commercial trucks travel the roads of Texas every single day. Unfortunately, careless truck drivers and trucking companies disregarding safety put innocent people at risk of serious injuries. If you’ve been injured in a truck accident, let our experienced Texas personal injury lawyers stand up to the trucking companies and insurers on your behalf.
- Motorcycle accidents – Motorcycle riders often suffer grievous injuries in crashes caused by other motorists. Too many motorcycle accidents in Corpus Christi are caused by careless drivers who don’t look for motorcycle riders or violate their right of way. Our personal injury lawyers will work to cut through the bias and stigma against motorcycle riders. Our goal is to seek the financial compensation that you’ll need to recover from a serious motorcycle accident and injuries such as bone fractures, road rash, or traumatic brain injury.
- Product liability – Product manufacturers have a legal obligation to make products that are safe for their intended uses and to warn consumers of any risks that may come with the product. When products have design or manufacturing defects or undisclosed dangers, the product manufacturer may be legally responsible for injuries suffered by consumers. Our attorneys can help you evaluate whether you have a valid product liability claim.
- Brain injury – Brain injuries can leave accident victims with disabilities that leave them unable to work or perform many tasks of daily living. Seeking compensation for a brain injury in an accident often proves incredibly complex. The brain injury survivor may seek compensation for anticipated future medical care and the medical care already provided. Our personal injury lawyers can help you through the difficult recovery process following a brain injury and will fight to make sure you have the resources you need.
- Spinal injury – Spinal cord injuries could cost millions of dollars of care over the course of the victim’s lifetime, especially when those injuries result in partial or complete paralysis, such as paraplegia or quadriplegia. If you or your loved one has suffered a spinal cord injury, you deserve compassionate legal representation. Our attorney can help you determine whether you may be entitled to claim compensation for your injury and expenses related to living with the disability, such as making a home more accessible.
- Wrongful death – If you have lost a loved one due to the negligent or reckless actions of another party, your family deserves to seek accountability and compensation from those at fault for the wrongful death. Our caring and dedicated attorneys can help guide you and your family through this difficult and painful time and seek justice for your loved one.
ABOUT HERRMAN & HERRMAN PERSONAL INJURY LAWYERS
Check out some of our other blogs!
- Drug maker hit with $2.5M jury verdict in first Risperdal trial
- New Bridge Going up from Northshore to Downtown Corpus Christi!
- Petey’s Back To School Bash
- Car Accidents Are a Risk in Texas No Matter the Season!
- Election 2016: Making Litigation Great Again!
