Self‑driving car crashes leave Houston families reeling. Stephen Goldenzweig, our Houston self‑driving car accident attorney, understands that shock, pain, and uncertainty often follow a collision involving autonomous technology.

We combine empathy with decisive legal action from our office at 6575 West Loop South, Suite 420, Bellaire. Call 713-561-5003 for a free case review today.

What Is a Self‑Driving Car Accident and Why Do They Happen in Houston?

A self‑driving car accident is any collision involving a vehicle controlled—fully or partially—by an automated driving system. These crashes occur on the 610 Loop, US‑59, and other Houston arteries for the same reasons regular vehicles crash and for new tech‑related reasons. Heavy Gulf Coast rain, construction zones, software miscalculations, or sensor blindness can all cause an autonomous vehicle to make a deadly split‑second mistake.

What Are the Common Causes of Self‑Driving Car Accidents?

Even smart cars fail.

  • Software malfunctions: A coding bug may misread a traffic signal or freeze when a pedestrian steps into a crosswalk.
  • Sensor or hardware failures: Cameras, radar, or LiDAR can become obscured by grime or floodwater, blinding the vehicle.
  • Human operator error: Many “Level 2” cars still need a human hand on the wheel; fatigue or distraction lets disaster strike.
  • Negligent human drivers nearby: A reckless driver who cuts off an autonomous car can trigger a chain reaction.
  • Environmental factors: Houston downpours, faded lane markings, or debris on I‑45 confuse guidance systems, causing sudden braking or lane drift.

Are There Uncommon or Unique Scenarios for Self‑Driving Car Crashes?

Yes—autonomous technology introduces hazards few Houstonians expect.

  • Human–AI miscommunication: An AV’s sudden cautious stop can invite a rear‑end crash from a following driver.
  • Smart‑infrastructure glitches: A faulty connected traffic light may send an AV through the intersection on the wrong signal.
  • Cyberattacks: Although rare, hacking can seize control of an autonomous system and cause erratic maneuvers.
  • Edge‑case objects: Livestock on a rural road or a sofa falling from a truck may stump the algorithm and lead to a collision.

Who Is Liable in a Self‑Driving Car Accident in Houston?

Determining fault in these cutting‑edge crashes is complex.

  • Vehicle manufacturer or tech company: A defective braking algorithm places responsibility on the designer under product‑liability law.
  • Human backup driver or fleet operator: A safety driver who ignores an on‑screen warning shares blame.
  • Another negligent motorist: A speeding pickup that slams an AV proves human error still dominates Texas roads.
  • Vehicle owner: Texas treats the automated system as the driver while engaged, meaning the owner’s insurer may also be liable.

We dig into sensor logs, black‑box data, and maintenance records to pinpoint every accountable party. Our Houston autonomous‑vehicle lawyers refuse to let corporate defendants hide behind complex code.

Does Texas Have Special Laws for Self‑Driving Car Accidents?

Texas legalized fully driverless cars in 2017 and requires them to follow all traffic laws and carry liability insurance. When a self‑driving system is active, state law deems that system the “driver.” Practically, the company behind the technology—and its insurer—must answer for any harm the vehicle causes. We stay current on every legislative update so our strategies reflect the newest protections for Houston victims.

What Should I Do If I’m Involved in a Self‑Driving Car Accident in Houston?

  1. Ensure safety and call 911. Get medical help for everyone.
  2. Seek a full medical exam. Some injuries surface hours later; a record ties them to the crash.
  3. Document the scene. Photograph damage, road conditions, and any cameras or sensors on the AV. Collect witness contacts.
  4. Avoid discussing fault. Let investigators decide why the autonomous system failed.
  5. Notify your insurer. Provide facts only.
  6. Call a Houston self‑driving car accident lawyer at Goldenzweig Law Group. We preserve critical data logs before they disappear and guide you through every step—at no upfront cost.

What Compensation Can I Recover for a Self‑Driving Car Accident Injury?

Victims may claim:

  • Medical expenses for hospital stays, surgery, rehab, and future care.
  • Lost wages and diminished earning power if injuries sideline a career.
  • Pain and suffering for physical agony and emotional trauma.
  • Property damage for vehicle repair or replacement.
  • Wrongful‑death damages covering funeral bills and loss of support when tragedy strikes a family.

Our Houston autonomous‑vehicle attorneys build meticulous documentation—bills, expert reports, and life‑care plans—to demand every dollar the law allows.

How Can a Houston Self‑Driving Car Accident Lawyer Help Me?

We handle the hard parts so you can heal.

  • Thorough crash investigation: We subpoena data logs, onboard videos, and software patches, then partner with engineers to reconstruct events.
  • Liability analysis: We identify each negligent entity—manufacturer, programmer, fleet owner, or reckless driver—and pursue them aggressively.
  • Maximum‑value advocacy: Our team quantifies future medical needs and lost earning capacity to avoid lowball offers.
  • Personal guidance with no upfront fees: You receive steady updates and owe us nothing unless we win.
  • Local insight: From Katy Freeway pileups to Sugar Land surface‑street crashes, we know Houston roads and juries.

Where Can I Find Experienced Self‑Driving Car Accident Attorneys in Houston?

Right here. Goldenzweig Law Group serves clients across Downtown, the Medical Center, Katy, The Woodlands, and beyond. Visit us in Bellaire or call 713-561-5003 for a free consultation. Let Stephen Goldenzweig and our dedicated Houston self‑driving crash lawyers shoulder the legal battle while you focus on recovery.

Client Testimonial

“Absolutely thrilled with my experience with GOLDENZWEIG from start to finish, they handled my personal injury case with professionalism, dedication, and a real commitment to getting me the best possible outcome. They fought hard for my settlement, and they made a home run.” – Tony

“A friend referred me to Mr. Goldenzweig and I am so thankful they did. My case with treated with individual attention and I feel like Mr. Goldenzweig truly understood every detail. The outcome of my case was incredible too. But even before it was finalized, I knew that Mr. Goldenzweig led me in the best direction. I tremendously appreciate all the time and attention I was shown.” – Brian

FAQs

Can passengers sue after a self‑driving car crash?

Yes. Passengers may claim injuries just as drivers do. We investigate the technology and all drivers involved to pinpoint liability.

Are self‑driving cars truly safer?

Automation reduces some mistakes, yet human error still causes most crashes, and software can fail. Staying alert—and knowing your legal rights—remains vital.