Michigan Self-Driving Car Accident Lawyers

A self-driving car accident in Michigan can leave you feeling overwhelmed. You may be dealing with medical bills, missed work, emotional stress, and damage to your vehicle, all while trying to understand who may be responsible. Insurance companies may push for quick resolutions, and questions about liability can add to the confusion.

Issues like software malfunctions, driver-assistance system failures, or human error can complicate these claims. Taking the wrong steps early may limit available compensation or create added financial strain, making recovery more difficult for you and your family. Without legal guidance, these challenges often become more stressful over time.

A Michigan self-driving car accident lawyer from Matz Injury Law can help you navigate each stage of the process. From investigating the crash to communicating with insurers and vehicle manufacturers, our car accident attorneys work to protect your rights and pursue appropriate compensation under Michigan law.

What Is Considered a Self-Driving Car?

A self-driving car, also called an autonomous vehicle, uses onboard technology such as cameras, sensors, and computer systems to assist with driving tasks. These vehicles operate at different levels of automation. Most vehicles currently on the road, including those with systems like Tesla Autopilot, provide driver assistance at Level 2, which still requires the human driver to stay attentive and ready to take control. Fully driverless vehicles that operate without human involvement remain limited. Most are currently used in controlled pilot programs or testing environments, including limited testing on public roads.

How Do Self-Driving Cars Work?

Self-driving vehicles rely on a combination of cameras, radar, and other sensors to detect traffic signals, other vehicles, pedestrians, and road conditions. Onboard computer systems process this information to help control steering, speed, and braking.

For most vehicles on the road today, the system is not fully autonomous. The human driver is still expected to monitor the vehicle and take over when needed. When a crash happens, questions often arise about whether the technology functioned as intended or whether the driver had enough time or warning to intervene. These issues can play a key role in determining responsibility after an accident.

Do I Need a Michigan Self-Driving Car Accident Lawyer?

In many cases, legal guidance is helpful after a self-driving car accident. These claims are often more complex than traditional car accident cases because responsibility may involve multiple parties, such as a human driver, a vehicle manufacturer, or a software provider. Insurance companies may challenge fault or limit coverage when advanced technology is involved.

If you suffered serious injuries or lost a loved one, having a lawyer who understands how autonomous vehicle claims intersect with Michigan law can help protect your rights and clarify your options as you move forward.

How Can a Lawyer Help if I’m Involved in a Self-Driving Car Accident?

After a self-driving car accident, a lawyer can handle the legal and insurance issues while you focus on your recovery. These cases often involve technical evidence and multiple parties, which can be difficult to manage on your own. Legal assistance may include:

• Preserving vehicle data and system records before they are overwritten or lost
• Investigating the crash, road conditions, and how the vehicle’s technology was operating
• Communicating with insurance companies and, when applicable, manufacturers or software providers
• Evaluating the full impact of the accident, including medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering
• Filing and managing an injury claim or lawsuit under Michigan law

Why Clients Partner With Matz Injury Law After Car Accidents

When a motor vehicle accident turns your life upside down, you need a law firm that listens and fights for you. At Matz Injury Law, we focus on listening to our clients and explaining each step of the process so they understand what is happening and what to expect. Our approach is centered on personalized representation and practical legal guidance tailored to each case, helping clients feel informed and supported as their claim moves forward.

A Fee Structure Designed to Help Injured People Keep More of Their Recovery

At Matz Injury Law, we use a 22% contingency fee rather than the higher percentages commonly charged in many injury cases. There are no upfront costs, and attorney’s fees are only paid if compensation is recovered. This approach allows injured people to keep more of their financial recovery, which can matter when medical bills, missed income, and ongoing care create long-term strain.

Matz Injury Law Has Received a Best Family-Led Law Firm Award

Matz Injury Law has been recognized with a Best Family-Led Law Firm award, reflecting its long-standing, family-founded approach to legal representation. For decades, the firm has focused on direct attorney involvement rather than routing clients through multiple layers of staff. Clients work closely with their attorney throughout the case, which helps promote clear communication and personal attention during the legal process.

Our Client Testimonials

“5 star is not enough for the service we received from Steven Matz and team for my daughter. What a great crew at Matz Injury Law! they are very professionals and awesome individuals as well. Steven always answered our phone calls even on weekends. I had an amazing experience working with steven. His dedication and professionalism makes the process simple, fast and stress free. Highly Highly recommended!!!” — Ajay G.

“I was given Steven’s information from my cousin that retained his services, and I have to say I am so pleased we did the same. The [level] of professionalism was outstanding, I never had to wonder or guess what was going to happen. Steven and his staff kept us up to date and informed in every step throughout our process. I highly recommend Matz Injury Law Firm.” — Michelle W.

“Steve and his staff have been an absolute delight to work with. I was with another firm prior to having Steve represent me. I am so glad I made the switch to Steve and the Matz Injury Law Firm. He has always been straight up with me and always kept me informed. If he wasn’t available he got back with me in a very timely manner. I am positive that I would not have received the same experience and outcome with the previous firm. If you find yourself in need of a personal injury attorney I highly recommend you give Steve and Matz [Injury] Law a call; I’m so glad I did!” — Rick K.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Auto Accident Lawyers Today

If you were injured in a self-driving car accident, it can help to talk with someone who understands how these cases work. A free case review gives you the chance to explain what happened, ask questions, and learn what options may be available under Michigan law. An attorney can walk through what the next steps could look like and help you decide how to move forward, especially when liability or vehicle technology is involved.

How Do Self-Driving Car Levels Impact Accident Claims in Michigan?

Self-driving and driver-assistance systems are grouped into levels by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) based on how much control the vehicle has compared to the human driver. These distinctions often matter after a crash because they affect who may be responsible.

• Level 0: No automation. The human driver controls the vehicle at all times.
• Level 1: Driver assistance. The vehicle provides limited help, such as lane support or adaptive cruise control, but the driver remains fully responsible.
• Level 2: Partial automation. The vehicle can assist with steering and speed, but the driver must stay alert and be ready to take control at any moment.
• Level 3: Conditional automation. The vehicle can handle driving in certain situations, but the driver may be required to step in when the system requests it.
• Level 4: High automation. The vehicle can operate on its own in most situations, often within specific areas or conditions.
• Level 5: Full automation. No human driver is needed under any conditions, though this level is not currently available to the public.

After an accident, the level of automation involved can influence whether fault may fall on a driver, a manufacturer, or another party.

When Can Companies Be Held Accountable for Self-Driving Car Crashes?

After a self-driving car accident, responsibility may involve more than just the person behind the wheel. Different companies may be responsible for the vehicle’s software, sensors, or driving systems, depending on how the crash occurred.

Some vehicles use advanced driver-assistance systems developed by manufacturers such as Tesla. Other companies, including Waymo and Cruise, have tested or deployed autonomous vehicles in limited settings. Traditional automakers like Ford and General Motors continue to develop and integrate this technology.

If a malfunction, system failure, or design issue played a role in the crash, identifying which company was involved can be an important part of determining liability and pursuing compensation.

How Common Are Self-Driving Car Accidents in Michigan?

Crashes involving self-driving or driver-assistance technology are becoming more common as these systems are used more frequently on Michigan roads. While fully autonomous vehicles remain limited, many crashes involve cars using advanced driver-assistance features such as lane keeping or adaptive cruise control.

Michigan law enforcement agencies and federal regulators, including the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, collect data on crashes involving these systems. These incidents often raise questions about whether the technology functioned properly or whether a driver had enough warning or ability to intervene. For injured people, this data can play an important role in investigating what went wrong and determining who may be responsible.

Are Self-Driving Cars Safe for Michigan Drivers and Pedestrians?

Self-driving and driver-assistance systems are often promoted as safety features, but crashes involving this technology still happen on Michigan roads. While these systems are designed to reduce certain types of human error, they can malfunction, misinterpret road conditions, or fail to respond appropriately in complex traffic situations.

For injured people, safety claims do not eliminate the possibility of fault. A crash may raise questions about whether the system functioned properly, whether the driver was given adequate warning to intervene, or whether road conditions exceeded the system’s limits. These factors can be important when determining responsibility and whether compensation may be available under Michigan law.

What Are the Findings of the IIHS Study About Self-Driving Vehicles Being Less Safe?

Research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has raised concerns about the current limits of self-driving and driver-assistance systems. Recent findings suggest there is limited evidence that partial automation significantly reduces crash rates. Many collisions still occur because systems can struggle with perception, complex traffic situations, or unpredictable actions by other drivers.

For people injured in Michigan car accidents, these findings matter because they show that technology does not eliminate risk or responsibility. When a crash happens, investigators may look closely at whether a system failed to detect hazards, responded too late, or relied too heavily on a human driver to intervene.

What Often Causes Fatal Self-Driving Car Accidents in Michigan?

Fatal crashes involving self-driving or driver-assistance technology can happen for several reasons, many of which are relevant on Michigan roads. Common contributing factors include:

• Sensor or detection failures, where cameras or other systems fail to recognize lane markings, stopped vehicles, or pedestrians, especially in low light, rain, or winter conditions.
• Software or system errors, where the vehicle misjudges speed, distance, or how to respond to changing traffic patterns.
• Driver reliance on technology, when a human driver does not intervene in time despite being required to monitor the system.
• Complex road environments, such as construction zones, poorly marked intersections, or unexpected actions by other drivers or pedestrians.

After a fatal crash in Michigan, investigators often examine whether the technology functioned as designed, whether the driver had adequate warning to take control, and whether roadway conditions played a role. These findings can affect who may be held responsible under Michigan law.

Jared Matz

Partner & Personal Injury Lawyer

Once he graduated from Michigan, Jared pursued a career in real estate sales and development with a company in Lansing. After gaining valuable knowledge and business experience, Jared returned to…

View Attorney

Steven Matz

Founding Partner & Personal Injury Lawyer

Steven J. Matz is the founder of Matz Injury Law, specializing in personal injury litigation with a focus on car accident victims. With over 40 years of legal experience, Mr.…

View Attorney

What Happens if a Self-Driving Car Hits a Pedestrian in Michigan?

When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle using self-driving or driver-assistance technology in Michigan, determining fault and the liable parties can be especially complex. Investigators may look at whether the vehicle’s sensors or software failed to detect the pedestrian, whether the human driver was required to intervene, or whether another factor contributed to the crash.

Under Michigan law, an injured pedestrian may be entitled to personal injury protection benefits for medical expenses and certain lost income, regardless of fault. In serious cases, additional claims may be possible against a driver, vehicle owner, or company involved in the technology if legal requirements are met. When a pedestrian is killed, surviving family members may pursue wrongful death claims based on the circumstances of the crash.

What to Do After a Self-Driving Car Accident in Michigan

If you are involved in a crash with a vehicle using self-driving or driver-assistance technology in Michigan, taking the right steps early can protect both your health and your potential claim:

• Call 911 and seek help immediately. Michigan law requires reporting crashes involving injuries, and emergency responders can document what happened.
• Document the scene if you are able. Take photos of vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible technology warnings or dashboard alerts.
• Limit discussions at the scene. Avoid speculating about fault or whether the technology failed, as these details are often investigated later using vehicle data.
• Get medical care as soon as possible. Some injuries may not be obvious right away, and medical records can be important for both treatment and no-fault benefits.
• Speak with a lawyer familiar with Michigan no-fault and technology-related crashes. Vehicle data and system logs may be overwritten quickly, and early legal guidance can help preserve evidence and clarify your options.

Who Is Legally Responsible After a Self-Driving Car Accident in Michigan?

Determining responsibility after a self-driving car accident in Michigan often involves more than one party. Unlike traditional crashes, fault may be shared depending on how the vehicle was operating and who had control at the time of the collision.

Responsibility may involve:

• A human driver who was required to monitor the system and failed to intervene.
• A vehicle owner who allowed unsafe use of driver-assistance features.
• A manufacturer or technology provider if a defect or system failure contributed to the crash.
• Another driver whose actions caused or contributed to the collision.

Michigan follows a comparative fault system, meaning responsibility may be divided among multiple parties based on each party’s role in causing the crash. In many car accident cases, an injured person generally cannot recover pain and suffering damages if they are found to be more than 50 percent at fault. Determining fault often requires reviewing vehicle data, system warnings, crash reports, and roadway conditions to understand what happened and who may be legally accountable.

Compensation That May Be Available After a Self-Driving Car Accident in Michigan

After a self-driving car accident in Michigan, the types of compensation available depend on the nature of the injuries and how the crash occurred. Michigan’s no-fault system plays a central role in determining what benefits may apply. Potential compensation may include:

• Medical expenses covered through personal injury protection benefits, which may include treatment, rehabilitation, and related care.
• Lost wages, including a portion of income lost during recovery, subject to Michigan no-fault limits.
• Pain and suffering damages in cases involving serious injuries that meet Michigan’s legal threshold.
• Property damage, including vehicle repair costs not fully covered by insurance.

Michigan law does not allow punitive damages in car accident cases. In limited circumstances involving particularly egregious conduct, exemplary damages may be available to compensate an injured person for the emotional impact of the wrongdoing. The compensation available in any case depends on the facts of the crash, the parties involved, and applicable insurance coverage.

How Is Fault Proven After a Self-Driving Car Accident in Michigan?

Proving fault after a self-driving car accident in Michigan often requires a detailed investigation beyond a typical crash review. When advanced technology is involved, it is important to determine how the vehicle was operating and whether a human driver was expected to intervene.

At Matz Injury Law, our attorneys review multiple sources of evidence to help clarify responsibility, including:

• Vehicle and system data, which may show whether driver-assistance features were active and how the vehicle responded before the crash.
• Event data recorder information, often referred to as black box data, that documents speed, braking, and steering inputs.
• Police reports and scene evidence, such as roadway conditions, traffic signals, and vehicle positions.
• Witness statements, which can provide insight into what occurred just before the collision.

By examining this information, Matz Injury Law works to identify whether responsibility may rest with a driver, another motorist, or a party connected to the vehicle’s technology. Because some digital evidence can be overwritten or lost, early legal guidance can help preserve key information and clarify your options under Michigan law.

Filing a Self-Driving Car Accident Lawsuit in Michigan

Not every self-driving car accident in Michigan leads to a lawsuit, but legal action may be necessary when injuries are serious or liability is disputed. A lawsuit is often used to resolve claims involving pain and suffering, contested fault, or technology-related failures that insurance alone does not address.

The process generally includes:

• Case review, where the facts of the crash are evaluated to determine whether legal action may be appropriate under Michigan law.
• Investigation, which may involve reviewing vehicle data, crash reports, and system performance to identify all potentially responsible parties.
• Filing the lawsuit, which must occur within Michigan’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
• Resolution, which may involve settlement discussions or, if necessary, court proceedings to address unresolved disputes.

Because self-driving vehicle cases often involve technical evidence and multiple parties, filing a lawsuit can be an important step in clarifying responsibility and pursuing compensation when other options fall short.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Be Drunk in a Self-Driving Car?

Michigan’s Operating While Intoxicated (OWI) laws can still apply in vehicles using self-driving or driver-assistance technology. In vehicles that require a human driver to monitor the system or take control, being impaired while positioned to operate the vehicle may still result in OWI charges.

Under Michigan law, intoxication may still result in legal responsibility depending on whether a person is considered operating or in control of the vehicle, even if certain automated features are active.

Can You Use a Phone in a Self-Driving Car?

Michigan’s hands-free law restricts holding or manually using a phone while operating a vehicle, with limited exceptions. In vehicles using driver assistance or partial automation, the human driver is still expected to pay attention and comply with these restrictions.

If distraction contributes to a failure to intervene or a crash, phone use may also be considered when determining fault. Passengers are not subject to these restrictions.

What Happens if a Self-Driving Car Malfunctions?

When a self-driving or driver-assistance system malfunctions and contributes to a crash, responsibility may extend beyond the driver. Michigan law allows injured people to pursue claims against manufacturers or technology providers if a defect, failure, or unsafe system design played a role.

Preserving system data, onboard video, and crash evidence is often critical in these cases, as vehicle data may be used to evaluate how the system functioned at the time of the collision.

Free Consultation for Michigan Self-Driving Car Accident Claims

A crash involving self-driving or driver-assistance technology can raise questions that are not always easy to answer. You may be dealing with injuries, insurance issues, and uncertainty about who is liable.

Matz Injury Law helps injured people across Michigan understand their options after these types of accidents. A free consultation gives you the opportunity to talk through what happened, ask questions, and learn what next steps may make sense based on your situation. If you are unsure where to start, having a conversation can help bring clarity during a stressful time. Call our law office today at 866-226-6833 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free case review with our legal team today. We are available 24/7 to help you understand your legal options and take the next step forward in your personal injury case with confidence.