5 Emerging Legal Questions About AI Car Accident in California

Article from Jun 27, 2025

AI car accident in California cases are on the rise as autonomous vehicles become a daily reality. From Teslas on autopilot to robotaxis in Los Angeles, the roads are changing — and so is the law.

But when a self-driving car crashes, who is responsible? The driver? The car manufacturer? The software developer? In this guide, we explore the most important legal questions surrounding AI-related car accidents in California and how victims can protect their rights.

1. Who Is Liable in an AI Car Accident in California?

California law generally holds drivers responsible for accidents — but what if the driver wasn’t driving? In an AI car accident in California, liability may fall on:

These cases often involve multiple parties and require expert testimony on how the AI behaved.

2. What Does California Law Say About Self-Driving Vehicles?

California has specific laws governing autonomous vehicles, overseen by the California DMV’s AV Program. The law requires AV manufacturers to carry $5 million in insurance and comply with safety reporting.

However, legal standards for AI negligence, malfunctions, or software errors are still evolving. This uncertainty makes it critical to consult an attorney after any crash involving an AV.

3. Can You Sue a Car Company Over a Self-Driving Crash?

Yes. If an AI system failed due to a design flaw, lack of safeguards, or defective software, you may file a product liability claim. Tesla, GM (Cruise), and Alphabet (Waymo) have all faced litigation over AV crashes.

Under California product liability law, victims can sue manufacturers for unsafe design, manufacturing defects, or failure to warn — even without proving traditional negligence.

4. What if the Car Was in Autopilot but the Driver Was Distracted?

This is a growing gray area. Courts may assign shared liability between the driver and the vehicle system. California allows comparative fault — meaning even if the AI made a mistake, a distracted driver may still be partially liable.

This often affects how much compensation victims receive. Getting a skilled attorney involved early can help clarify liability and maximize your claim.

5. What Damages Can You Claim After an AI Car Crash?

If you’re injured in an AI-related crash, you may be entitled to:

AI car accident cases often involve corporate defendants and high-dollar policies — but they also require strategic, tech-savvy legal representation.

ANTN Law: Advocates for the Injured in California’s AV Era

At ANTN Law, we stay ahead of legal trends to fight for everyday Californians. Led by experienced trial attorney Arpine Navasardyan, our firm tackles cutting-edge cases — including injuries caused by autonomous or AI-driven vehicles.

If you’ve been hurt in an AI car accident in California, don’t guess who’s liable — book your free consultation with ANTN Law here. We’ll investigate the tech, the driver’s actions, and the corporate entities involved to get you the compensation you deserve.

FAQ: AI Car Accidents in California

What is considered an AI car accident?

Any crash involving a vehicle operating in whole or part under automated driving technology, such as Tesla Autopilot or Waymo’s full AV mode.

Can I sue Tesla for an Autopilot crash?

Yes, depending on the cause. Tesla may be liable under product defect laws if the software malfunctioned or lacked warnings.

Does California have special rules for AV crashes?

Yes. AV companies must follow DMV reporting laws, carry insurance, and meet testing requirements — but personal injury liability is still based on fault.

Do I need a lawyer after a crash involving an autonomous car?

Absolutely. These cases are complex and involve advanced technology, corporate policies, and evolving legal standards.

What if I was hit by an AV with no driver?

You can still file a claim. Our firm investigates AV operation data to determine liability — even in fully autonomous cases.

Final Takeaway

The future of driving is already here — and so are the legal challenges. Whether you were injured by a Tesla on Autopilot or struck by a robotaxi in Los Angeles, understanding your rights in an AI car accident in California claim is essential.

Reach out to ANTN Law for your free consultation. We’ll help you hold the right parties accountable and recover what you’re owed — with no fee unless we win.