Would Driverless Cars Save Lives? Omaha Personal-Injury Attorney Investigates
The automotive industry is constantly introducing cutting-edge technology that improves comfort, reduces fuel consumption and saves lives. Rarely, though, is there a breakthrough that can accomplish all three, but driverless cars may do just that.
Although these vehicles are several years away, there may come a time when human errors no longer cause accidents. Until that day, however, driver negligence will continue to cause serious injuries and fatalities.
If you were the unfortunate victim of an accident in Nebraska, then an Omaha personal-injury attorney from Rensch & Rensch Law may be able to help. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and medical expenses from the liable party. Call us today at 1-800-471-4100 to discuss your options.
In the meantime, read on to learn four ways that self-driving vehicles may change the industry:
- Fewer Car Crashes
According to Forbes, driverless cars may reduce the number of accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are more than 9 million accidents on U.S. roads each year, but this technology could lower that number to a fraction.
Google claims that its cars could reduce crash rates by up to 90 percent. Other companies, such as Volvo, are trying to introduce crash-proof vehicles within the next five years.
- Fewer Emergency Room Visits
Fewer accidents mean fewer visits to emergency rooms. According to Forbes, emergency rooms may lose millions of patients each year due to driverless cars, and there will be a significant decrease in costly overnight stays.
- More Transparency for Injury Claims
Many manufacturers are already using advanced crash-monitoring technology. This includes sensors and cameras that assist insurance companies in assigning liability and preventing fraud. Driverless cars are expected to feature this technology, which can help victims recover the damages they need to pay for medical bills, lost wages and other damages.
- Fewer Claims
Because driverless cars will prevent human error from causing accidents, fewer crashes will result from negligence. There will likely be a reduction in the number of personal-injury lawsuits. Also, because proving liability will be more straightforward, a larger portion of cases will settle rather than going to trial.
Of course, this technology is still under development. Although there are several new safety features that are preventing accidents and injuries, negligent driving still remains a major concern on Nebraska roads.
When to Contact a Personal-Injury Attorney
Your first priority after an accident should be seeking medical attention. If you are able, collect insurance information from all drivers involved. Also, record the contact details of drivers and witnesses, and take photos of the scene. You should then contact an injury attorney as soon as possible.
If you or a loved one was injured in a collision in Nebraska, then contact Rensch & Rensch Law. An Omaha injury attorney can evaluate your crash to determine if you may have valid grounds for a claim. Call us today at 1-800-471-4100 to schedule a consultation.