As autonomous or driverless cars become more common on Texas roads, companies like Waymo are introducing new technology that changes how accidents happen and how they are handled. While these vehicles are designed to operate without a human driver, collisions can still occur.
A Waymo accident may involve a passenger inside the vehicle, another motorist, a cyclist, or a pedestrian. In many cases, the cause of the accident is not immediately clear. It may involve a combination of factors, including the actions of other drivers, road conditions, or the performance of the vehicle’s software and sensors.
If you are involved in a crash with a self-driving vehicle, it is important to understand what steps to take. Knowing how to respond can help protect your safety, preserve important evidence, and ensure that the situation is properly documented.
If you have questions about your rights after a collision, a Texas Waymo accident lawyer may help you better understand your legal options based on the facts of your case.
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What Makes Waymo Accidents Different?
A Waymo accident is not handled the same way as a regular car accident.
Here’s why:
- No human driver in control: There may not be a driver to question or hold responsible right away.
- Technology plays a major role: The vehicle relies on software, cameras, and sensors.
- The vehicle may keep moving after impact: Waymo cars are designed to move to a safe location before stopping.
- Data is recorded automatically: The vehicle collects information about speed, movement, and surroundings.
- Multiple parties may be involved: Responsibility could involve the vehicle, another driver, or even a third party.
Because of these differences, figuring out what happened takes more time and investigation.
How Waymo Vehicles Actually Work (And Why It Matters in an Accident)
Waymo vehicles are not just regular cars without a driver. They rely on a combination of advanced technology to operate safely on the road.
These vehicles use:
- Cameras to detect traffic lights, signs, and road markings
- Radar systems to track moving objects like cars and pedestrians
- LiDAR sensors to create a 3D map of the surroundings
- Artificial intelligence (AI) to make driving decisions in real time
All of this data is processed instantly to control speed, direction, and braking.
Why this matters after an accident:
- The vehicle records detailed data about what happened.
- This data can be used to determine fault.
- Investigations may take longer because experts need to review this information.
Unlike a regular accident, you are not just relying on witness statements. The vehicle itself becomes a key source of evidence.
What to Do Immediately After a Waymo Accident
The moments following any accident can be stressful and confusing. The presence of a driverless vehicle may add to that uncertainty. However, the steps you take after a Waymo accident are similar in many ways to those you would take after a traditional car accident.
1. Prioritize Safety and Call 911
Your first priority should always be safety. Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, contact emergency services immediately.
Even if injuries are not immediately apparent, it is often advisable to call law enforcement so that an official report can be created. This documentation can be important later.
2. Move to a Safe Location
If it is safe to do so, move out of traffic and away from any immediate hazards. In some cases, a Waymo vehicle may continue driving after a collision to reach a safer location before stopping. This is part of its programmed safety response.
Remain aware of your surroundings and avoid standing in unsafe areas near moving traffic.
3. Report the Accident
After a Waymo collision, it is important to ensure that the incident is properly reported.
Waymo provides several ways to report a collision, including:
- Calling their support line
- Submitting a report online
- Using a QR code located on the vehicle
At the same time, you should follow Texas legal requirements for reporting an accident, particularly if there are injuries or significant property damage.
4. Gather Information
As with any motor vehicle accident, it is important to gather relevant information at the scene. However, accidents involving a Waymo vehicle may look a bit different since there may not be a traditional driver to speak with directly.
If a Waymo vehicle is involved, you may not be able to “exchange” information in the usual way. Instead, you can take steps to document the details yourself, including:
- Names and contact information of any other individuals involved
- Insurance information from any human drivers involved
- Identifying details of the Waymo vehicle, including the license plate or vehicle number
Waymo vehicles are equipped with systems that record trip and incident data, and in some cases, you may be able to use the vehicle’s interface or a support line to report the incident. Law enforcement can also assist in obtaining relevant information as part of the official accident report.
Even though the vehicle may be self-driving, it is still important to gather as much information as possible on your own to help document what happened.
5. Document the Scene
If it is safe, take photographs or video of:
- The vehicles involved
- Damage to property
- Road conditions and surroundings
- Traffic signals or signage
You should also note the time, location, and any witness information. This documentation may be useful if questions arise later about how the accident occurred.
6. Contact an Accident Lawyer
Always contact an accident lawyer after a crash. Navigating a claim with Waymo can be really hassling and confusing. So let an experienced lawyer take over to maximize your compensation and avoid the headaches.
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Can You Sue Waymo After an Accident in Texas?
Yes, in some situations, you may be able to take legal action after a Waymo accident. However, these cases are more complex than standard car accidents.
You may have a case if you suffered serious injuries as a result of any of the following:
- The vehicle’s system failed to respond correctly.
- The sensors did not detect an obstacle.
- The software made an unsafe driving decision.
But it’s important to understand:
- Not every accident involving a Waymo vehicle leads to a claim against the company.
- Fault must be clearly proven using evidence, including vehicle data.
In many cases, the claim may involve another driver or multiple parties.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim in Texas?
Texas law limits how long you have to take action after an accident. In most personal injury cases, you have:
- Two years from the date of the accident to file a claim
If you wait too long:
- You may lose your right to recover compensation.
- Important evidence may be harder to obtain.
Because Waymo accident cases can take longer to investigate, it’s smart to act sooner rather than later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Waymo Accident
Many people hurt their case without realizing it.
Avoid these mistakes:
- Leaving too quickly: Stay until it’s safe, and everything is documented.
- Not reporting the accident to Waymo: This can delay your claim.
- Skipping medical care: Some injuries show up later.
- Talking too much to insurance companies: They may use your words against you.
- Assuming the self-driving car is at fault: Fault is not always automatically with the Waymo vehicle.
What to Do If You Were a Passenger in a Waymo Vehicle
If you were riding inside a Waymo vehicle at the time of a collision, your experience may be different from a traditional accident involving a human driver.
After a crash:
- You may be contacted by Waymo’s support team automatically.
- The vehicle may move to a safe stopping location.
- You may be given instructions through the app or onboard system.
You should still:
- Check for injuries and call 911 if necessary.
- Follow any guidance provided by emergency responders.
- Document the incident if you are able.
Waymo may also provide certain insurance coverage for passengers, regardless of fault. However, the details of coverage can vary depending on the situation.
What to Do If You Were Another Driver, Pedestrian, or Cyclist in an Accident with a Waymo Vehicle
If you were outside the Waymo vehicle, whether as a driver, pedestrian, or cyclist, the situation may feel unusual due to the absence of a human driver.
In these cases:
- Look for signals from the vehicle indicating it is aware of the collision.
- Follow standard accident procedures, including contacting law enforcement.
- Use available methods to report the incident to Waymo.
You may be able to:
- Call Waymo directly
- Scan a QR code on the vehicle
- Submit information online
Once you have obtained information and documented the scene, you generally do not need to wait for a Waymo representative to arrive unless instructed otherwise.
Seeking Medical Attention After a Waymo Accident
Even if you do not feel seriously injured, it is important to seek medical attention after an accident.
Some injuries may not appear immediately. Symptoms related to head, neck, or soft tissue injuries can develop hours or days later.
Medical records can also serve as important documentation if you later need to address insurance or legal matters related to the accident.
Understanding Liability in a Waymo Accident
Determining responsibility in a Waymo accident can be more complex than in a traditional motor vehicle collision.
Depending on the circumstances, liability may involve:
- The operator of another vehicle
- The manufacturer or developer of the autonomous system
- A third party responsible for the maintenance of road conditions
In Texas, fault may be shared among multiple parties. Each case depends on its specific facts, including how the accident occurred and what evidence is available.
Because of these complexities, it is not always immediately clear who is responsible after a self-driving car accident.
Insurance Considerations After a Waymo Accident
Insurance coverage in a Waymo accident may differ from a standard car accident.
Waymo vehicles are typically covered by commercial insurance policies. In addition, passengers may have access to certain coverage regardless of fault.
However, the claims process may involve:
- Multiple insurance providers
- Review of vehicle data and incident reports
- Coordination between different parties
Keeping thorough records and documentation can help support your claim and avoid unnecessary delays.
Are Waymo Vehicles Safer Than Regular Cars?
Waymo and other companies design self-driving cars to reduce human error, which is a leading cause of accidents.
These vehicles aim to:
- Avoid distracted driving
- Follow traffic laws consistently
- React quickly to hazards
However, accidents can still happen due to:
- Unexpected road conditions
- System limitations
- Other drivers on the road
What this means for you: Even with advanced technology, you still need to know your rights and what to do after a crash.
Common Challenges in Autonomous Vehicle Accident Cases
Accidents involving autonomous vehicles often present unique challenges, including:
- Lack of a human driver: There may be no driver to question about what happened.
- Technology-based evidence: Data from sensors and software may play a role.
- Complex liability questions: Responsibility may be shared or unclear.
- Evolving laws and regulations: Legal standards are unsettled and continue to develop.
These factors can make the legal process more involved than a traditional accident claim.
What If the Waymo Vehicle Leaves the Scene?
In some cases, a Waymo vehicle may not stop immediately after impact.
This can happen because:
- The system is programmed to move to a safer location.
- It is trying to avoid blocking traffic or creating another hazard.
If this happens:
- Do not panic.
- Note the direction the vehicle traveled.
- Report the incident to the police and Waymo.
- Use any identifying details (vehicle markings, time, location) when making your reports and keep that information to give to your lawyer.
This behavior is part of the system design, but it can feel confusing if you’re not expecting it.
When to Consider Speaking with a Texas Waymo Accident Lawyer
In some situations, it may be helpful to speak with an attorney after a Waymo accident, particularly if:
- You have suffered serious injuries.
- Liability is disputed.
- Insurance companies disagree on responsibility.
- You are unsure how to move forward.
A Texas Waymo accident lawyer can review the details of your situation and help you understand your options. Legal guidance may be especially important in cases involving new or complex technologies.
How to Protect Yourself After a Waymo Accident?
Taking the right steps after an accident can make a meaningful difference. You can help protect yourself by:
- Prioritizing safety and seeking medical care
- Reporting the accident promptly
- Gathering and preserving evidence
- Keeping records of all communications and expenses
Being proactive can help ensure that the incident is properly documented and addressed.
