Self-Driving Car Accidents in New Mexico: Who is Liable?

As autonomous vehicle technology advances, self-driving cars are becoming more common on New Mexico roads. While they offer potential safety benefits, accidents involving autonomous vehicles present unique legal challenges. Determining liability can be complex, involving manufacturers, software developers, vehicle owners, and even third-party maintenance providers.

How Liability is Determined in Self-Driving Car Accidents

Unlike traditional car accidents, self-driving car accidents may not always involve driver error. In New Mexico, liability may fall on multiple parties, including:

  • The Vehicle Manufacturer – If a design or manufacturing defect causes an accident, the carmaker may be held responsible.
  • The Software Developer – If a programming failure or sensor malfunction leads to a crash, the software company may share liability.
  • The Vehicle Owner or Operator – Some autonomous vehicles still require human oversight, meaning the driver could be partially responsible in certain cases.
  • Third-Party Maintenance Providers – If improper maintenance or faulty repairs contribute to the accident, a third-party mechanic could be liable.

New Mexico Laws on Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

New Mexico has yet to enact specific laws governing self-driving car accidents, but existing traffic laws and personal injury statutes still apply. The state follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning liability may be divided among multiple parties based on their level of fault. If you are injured in an accident involving a self-driving car, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Challenges in Self-Driving Car Accident Claims

Self-driving car accident claims can be more complicated than traditional car accident cases. Key challenges include:

  • Proving Fault – Determining whether the crash was caused by human error, software failure, or mechanical malfunction requires expert analysis.
  • Corporate Legal Teams – Large car manufacturers and tech companies often have aggressive legal teams prepared to minimize liability.
  • Insurance Complications – Policies covering autonomous vehicles may differ from standard auto insurance, making it harder to secure fair compensation.

What to Do If You Are in a Self-Driving Car Accident in New Mexico

If you are involved in an accident with a self-driving vehicle, take the following steps:

  1. Seek Medical Attention – Your health is the top priority.
  2. Report the Accident – Contact law enforcement to document the incident.
  3. Gather Evidence – Take photos, collect witness statements, and obtain any available dashcam footage.
  4. Consult an Attorney – A skilled personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights and navigate the legal complexities of your claim.

How The Law Offices of Kenneth G. Egan Can Help

At The Law Offices of Kenneth G. Egan, we understand the complexities of self-driving car accident cases. Our team has extensive experience handling personal injury claims and will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or taking your case to court, we are here to fight for you.

We are located in Las Cruces and proudly serve the surrounding areas, including Doña Ana, Santo Tomas, La Mesa, Fort Selden, Radium Springs, and beyond.