What to Do If You’re Injured in a Waymo or Zoox Ride?

Autonomous vehicles, once a futuristic dream, are now actively operating on public roads. Companies like Waymo and Zoox have developed advanced self-driving cars designed to safely transport passengers to their destinations without human drivers behind the wheel.

These vehicles are equipped with cutting-edge autonomous driving technology. However, they’re not immune to accidents. If you are injured while riding in a Waymo or Zoox vehicle, you may face a complicated legal battle when seeking compensation.

Unlike traditional car accidents, where fault typically lies with a negligent driver, self-driving car accidents introduce unique legal challenges. Liability may fall on multiple parties, including the company that operates the vehicle, the autonomous vehicle manufacturer, third-party software providers, or even other drivers on the road. Understanding how to protect your rights after an accident in a Waymo or Zoox self-driving car is crucial.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Waymo or Zoox Accident?

Determining liability is one of the most significant legal challenges in autonomous vehicle accidents. Since self-driving cars rely on AI, sensors, and automation rather than human drivers, establishing fault is often complex. Multiple parties could be held responsible depending on the circumstances of the accident. They include:

1. Waymo or Zoox (The Operating Company)

If an accident occurs due to a malfunction in the self-driving software, faulty sensor technology, or an issue with the vehicle’s AI-driven navigation system, the company that operates the car—Waymo or Zoox—may be responsible for providing compensation.

2. Vehicle Manufacturers

Manufacturers of autonomous vehicles are responsible for ensuring their vehicles are safe for public use. If a mechanical defect, brake failure, or faulty component contributes to an accident, the automaker could be held accountable under product liability laws.

3. Software and Sensor Providers

Waymo and Zoox vehicles rely on complex software systems and sensor-based navigation. If a crash resulted from a coding error, sensor malfunction, or AI misjudgment, the third-party technology provider that designed these systems could be partially liable.

4. Other Negligent Drivers

Not all self-driving car crashes are caused by technology failures. If another driver acted recklessly—by speeding, running a red light, or driving under the influence—they may be responsible for the accident, just as in any traditional car accident.

Steps to Take If You’re Injured in a Waymo or Zoox Accident

Taking immediate action is essential to protect your legal rights and maximize your chances of securing compensation if you are injured in an autonomous vehicle accident. Steps to take include:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Getting checked by a medical professional after an accident is important—even if your injuries are minor. Some common motor vehicle accident injuries, such as whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions, may not show symptoms right away. A medical record will also serve as critical evidence if you decide to file a claim.

2. Call the Police and Report the Incident

Even though the self-driving car is operating autonomously, you should still call law enforcement to report the accident. A police report will provide an official record of the crash, which can be helpful when determining liability.

3. Gather Evidence at the Scene

Please document everything at the accident site. Take photos and videos of the Waymo or Zoox vehicle, as well as the road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Collect witness statements from bystanders who saw the crash.

4. Request Data from the Autonomous Vehicle

Unlike conventional accidents, where witness testimony plays a significant role, self-driving cars store vast amounts of sensor data, driving logs, and camera footage. Requesting this data can help prove how an accident happened—and establish who is at fault.

5. Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

Because Waymo and Zoox accidents involve corporations with extensive legal teams, working with an experienced autonomous vehicle accident lawyer is very wise in these circumstances. A legal professional can help you manage the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Legal Challenges in Suing a Self-Driving Car Company

Holding companies like Waymo or Zoox accountable for an autonomous vehicle accident is far more complicated than suing an individual driver. These cases involve corporate liability, AI regulations, product defects, and emerging laws that govern self-driving technology.

Proving Fault in a Waymo or Zoox Accident

Determining fault in a self-driving car accident often requires access to technical data, software logs, and expert analysis. Unlike traditional accidents, where human error is the primary cause, these cases involve a range of potential causes. Many of these causes may be rooted in technical matters that require thorough analysis.

Autonomous vehicle accident investigations require a deep dive into AI decision-making, sensor interactions, and machine learning responses. Lawyers must work with forensic experts to analyze this data and determine liability.

Defense Strategies Autonomous Car Companies Use

Waymo and Zoox may argue that their technology is statistically safer than human drivers. Thus, if an accident occurs, they may state that said accident was unavoidable. They may shift blame to another driver, a pedestrian, or even the passenger. These companies have significant resources to defend themselves, making it critical to have a strong legal strategy.

Compensation Available After a Self-Driving Car Accident

You may be eligible to receive compensation for your losses if you are injured in a Waymo or Zoox accident. The type and amount of compensation available depend on the severity of your injuries and the circumstances of the accident.

Types of Compensation You Can Recover

FAQs About Waymo and Zoox Accidents

Who is responsible if a self-driving car crashes?

Liability depends on the cause. Waymo or Zoox may be liable if the accident was due to a software malfunction. If another driver’s negligence contributed to the crash, their insurance company may be responsible.

What should I do if I’m injured in a Waymo or Zoox accident?

Seek medical attention, document the scene, file a police report, and contact a personal injury attorney experienced in autonomous vehicle accidents.

Can I sue Waymo or Zoox for my injuries?

Yes. If the accident was caused by a technology failure, sensor defect, or software error, you may have grounds for a personal injury lawsuit against Waymo or Zoox.

Are self-driving cars safer than human-driven vehicles?

Studies suggest that autonomous vehicles reduce some types of accidents. That doesn’t mean they’re immune to errors. System failures and unpredictable road conditions can still lead to crashes.

How long do I have to file a claim after an autonomous vehicle accident?

The statute of limitations for personal injury claims varies by state. In Nevada, you typically have two years to file a claim. However, exceptions may apply based on the specifics of your case.

Get Legal Assistance After a Waymo or Zoox Accident

Being injured in a Waymo or Zoox self-driving car accident presents unique legal challenges, from determining liability to handling complex corporate defenses. If you find yourself in this situation, taking immediate action—seeking medical care, documenting Evidence, and consulting a personal injury lawyer—can significantly impact your case.

At Gina Corena & Associates, we understand the complexities of autonomous vehicle injury claims and are prepared to fight for your rights. If you’ve been injured in a self-driving car accident, contact us today to explore your legal options and seek the compensation you deserve.