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Last Modified on Jul 24, 2026
Self-driving cars are becoming more common in Michigan, particularly near Ann Arbor and Detroit. Passenger vehicles already employ assisted driving features, and private companies continue to test fully automated vehicles.
If you were injured in a crash that involved one of these vehicles, you may be wondering what to do if you’re injured by a self-driving or ADAS-enabled vehicle in Michigan.
How Common Are Self-Driving Cars?
In March of 2026, General Motors announced public road tests of automated vehicle technology in Michigan, with more than 200 vehicles scheduled to be tested in live traffic conditions. The number of autonomous vehicles in the country is expected to reach 35,000 by 2030. Growth in the industry continues to be driven by advances in artificial intelligence, sensors, cameras, and vehicle connectivity.
In 2025, the state saw a 7% decline in deadly collisions compared to the previous year, which recorded 1,021 roadway deaths. As automatic vehicles and ADAS-equipped vehicles become more commonplace, collisions involving these technologies will become more common. After a crash involving a self-driving car, there can be complex legal challenges that arise when establishing fault and liability.
Steps to Take After a Self-Driving Car Collision
Whether a collision happens in Brush Park, Corktown, Palmer Woods, or another area in Michigan, the steps you take afterward can protect your safety and your eligibility to pursue fair compensation. Your first priority should be your health and safety. Call 911 to report the collision and try to wait away from moving traffic if possible.
Take photographs of the scene of the collision and allow paramedics to examine you for injuries. If you have any injuries, do not hesitate to seek medical attention at Henry Ford Hospital, located at 2799 West Grand Boulevard in Detroit, or DMC Harper University Hospital, located at 3990 John R Street. Follow your doctor’s recovery guidelines, even if that means missing time from work.
Medical records can play a crucial role in protecting your eligibility to pursue a settlement from the negligent party. You can also ask for a copy of the policy report for the collision. Seeking legal support from an experienced injury lawyer can streamline the injury claims process.
Who Is Liable for a Self-Driving Car Collision?
Determining liability after a self-driving car collision can be more complicated than a traditional auto accident. Depending on the circumstances, responsibility may rest with the vehicle operator, the manufacturer, the developer of the autonomous driving system, or another party involved in the vehicle’s design, maintenance, or operation.
Although Michigan’s no-fault insurance system generally requires injured motorists to seek medical and wage-loss benefits through their own insurance policies first, fault can still matter when pursuing compensation for pain and suffering or excess economic losses. If you suffer catastrophic injuries or other conditions apply, you may be eligible to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim.
Why You Should Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a collision that involved an autonomous vehicle, your top priority should be to hire a car accident lawyer from Wigod & Falzon. Our lawyers focus on complex personal injury claims and understand the complexities of insurance and personal injury laws. When you secure representation from our trusted car accident attorney, you position yourself for a favorable outcome in your car accident case.
Our clients are connected directly to one of our lead attorneys who can explain Michigan car accident laws and how they can help you secure fair compensation for your injuries. Over the years, our top-rated legal team has won numerous awards and recognition from groups like Top Attorneys of North America, The National Trial Lawyers, and other prominent groups.
**Awards and recognition are not guarantees of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.
FAQs
Who Is Responsible for a Driverless Car Accident?
Michigan’s no-fault system generally requires injured motorists to seek medical expenses and certain losses through their own insurance policy. This is regardless of who caused the crash. However, responsibility may still matter when determining whether a vehicle operator, manufacturer, software developer, or another party can be held liable for additional damages.
Is Michigan Still a No-Fault State for Auto Insurance?
Yes, Michigan is still a no-fault state for auto insurance purposes. Following a collision, injured motorists generally seek medical expenses and certain lost wage benefits through their own Personal Injury Protection coverage, regardless of fault. However, fault may still become important when pursuing compensation beyond available no-fault benefits. An experienced attorney can help victims navigate this.
Can the Vehicle Manufacturer Be Liable for a Self-Driving Car Crash?
Yes, a vehicle manufacturer may be held liable if a defective sensor, software program, camera, braking system, or other component contributed to the collision. Product liability claims often involve extensive investigations and analysis by consultants to determine whether a design defect, manufacturing defect, or another failure was the cause of the collision.
Can I Pursue Compensation for Pain and Suffering After a Self-Driving Vehicle Accident in Michigan?
Michigan law allows injured motorists to pursue compensation for pain and suffering when a collision causes death, permanent serious disfigurement, or a serious impairment of body function. Whether a claim qualifies depends on the severity of the injury and the specific facts surrounding the accident. Documentation can be key to a successful outcome in these types of cases.
Hurt in a Self-Driving Car Crash? Contact Wigod & Falzon Today
Being struck in a car collision can leave you facing unexpected hardships and financial challenges. When you secure representation from Wigod & Falzon, you gain the trusted support of advocates who care about the outcome of your case and guide you toward the compensation that you are owed. Our dedicated injury lawyers commonly take on complex injury claims, so we understand the challenges that come with managing a claim involving an autonomous vehicle.
Our injury lawyer can start by carefully documenting the harm you suffered by learning about the setbacks you faced and reviewing your medical records. If your case qualifies for a personal injury claim, we can prepare the court filings necessary to start that process. Start the process today by contacting our office to schedule your initial consultation.
