Advanced vehicle control systems, including autonomous functionality, present novel liability considerations for the auto industry. While current law provides a useful framework to assess manufacturer liability, things may change as the “human error” factor is effectively eliminated as an overwhelming cause of vehicle crashes.

In my recent Bloomberg law article, “Advanced Vehicle Control Systems & Human Error,” I discuss how increasing automated driving functions have created new legal challenges to manufacturers, as consumers claim vehicle malfunction or failure-to-equip, rather than human error, is a much more likely cause of crashes. Using examples, I examines how consumer expectations—a barometer for determining liability—will largely be shaped by our collective acceptance and understanding of the technology.

Reproduced with permission. Bloomberg Law, Copyright 2021 by The Bureau of National Affairs, Inc. (800-372-1033) http://www.bloombergindustry.com.