What to Do If You’re Injured by a Self-Driving Car

Autonomous vehicles are becoming more common on the road, with companies like Tesla, Waymo, and Cruise at the forefront of the self-driving movement. But while the technology is advancing, accidents still happen—and when they do, the aftermath can be confusing.

If you’re injured by a self-driving car, whether as a driver, pedestrian, cyclist, or passenger, it’s important to act quickly and strategically. The steps you take in the moments and days following the accident can significantly impact your legal and financial recovery.

At Brubaker Injury Law, we help victims of autonomous vehicle (AV) accidents navigate these complex cases with confidence. Here’s what to do if you find yourself in this situation.

1. Prioritise Safety and Call Emergency Services

Your health and safety come first. Move to a safe location if possible and call 911 to report the accident. Request both medical help and a police response, even if your injuries seem minor.

Many AV-related injuries may not show symptoms right away. A medical evaluation ensures your well-being and also provides crucial documentation for any future claim.

2. Document the Scene Thoroughly

As soon as you’re able, begin collecting evidence from the scene. The more details you can gather, the stronger your case will be later.

Take photos or videos of:

• All vehicles involved, especially the self-driving car
• Visible damage to property or persons
• Street signs, traffic lights, skid marks, or weather conditions
• Any signage on the AV (e.g., fleet/company name, license plate)

Ask for contact information from:

• Witnesses
• The operator (if the AV has a backup driver)
• Anyone else involved in the crash

Even if the vehicle was driverless, record its make, model, and any identifying features—this can help us identify the manufacturer or fleet owner later on.

3. Preserve Key Evidence

In AV-related accidents, one of the most important elements is digital evidence. Try to gather:

• Dashcam footage (yours or others nearby)
• Photos of the AV’s interface/dashboard
• Police reports noting the AV system was engaged
• Statements from witnesses about what they saw the vehicle do

Whenever possible, request the preservation of the vehicle’s data logs—these can contain crucial information about the AV’s behavior, speed, sensor readings, and more. This is often something your attorney will request formally during the legal process.

4. File a Report and Notify Insurance

You should notify your own auto insurance company—even if you weren’t driving. Depending on your location and the situation, your personal injury protection (PIP) or uninsured motorist coverage may apply.

However, do not accept a settlement offer or give detailed recorded statements to any insurance company without consulting a lawyer. AV cases often involve multiple liable parties, and an early settlement may not account for the full value of your claim.

5. Speak to a Lawyer with AV Case Experience

Autonomous vehicle accidents are different from traditional crashes. You may be dealing with:

• A product liability claim against the vehicle manufacturer
• A software failure caused by a third-party developer
• Negligence from a backup driver or fleet operator
• Insurance disputes involving multiple policies or self-insured companies

At Brubaker Injury Law, we understand the unique challenges AV cases bring. We work quickly to:

• Preserve and analyze vehicle data
• Consult with tech experts to reconstruct the event
• Determine all responsible parties
• File claims and fight for fair compensation—covering medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more

We’re not just personal injury attorneys—we’re legal advocates for victims in a rapidly changing world of transportation.

Let Brubaker Injury Law Handle the Legal Road Ahead

Being injured by a self-driving car is overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone. Our team at Brubaker Injury Law is here to stand up to manufacturers, tech companies, and insurers on your behalf. Call us today for a free consultation, or fill out our secure online form. We’ll review your case, explain your rights, and help you take the next step toward justice and recovery.