Possible Problems with Self-Driving Trucks

State law in Texas allows fully autonomous commercial vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, on the road. Unlike in other states, the law does not require a human operator to be present in the truck and for anyone in the vicinity of the vehicle, this can pose significant danger. Not only do self-driving trucks pose many potential issues, filing a claim afterward to obtain damages for your losses also has many challenges. Below, our San Antonio truck accident attorney explains what these are.

Legal Liability Becomes More Complicated 

It is always difficult to determine liability after a truck accident because in many cases, there are multiple liable parties. However, determining liability becomes even more challenging when a case involves a fully self-driving truck.

As in other truck accident cases, liability for a self-driving truck accident may lie with the owner or operator of the truck, the trucking company, or the manufacturer. Unlike in other cases, liability for an autonomous vehicle accident can also lie with any human that was in the truck, software developers, or software operators and installers. It is important to speak to an attorney who can determine who is to blame for your injuries.

Changing Laws 

Texas is considered a leader in the development and deployment of autonomous commercial trucks. Still, the laws are always changing. For example, state lawmakers recently passed HB 4402, which took effect on September 1, 2025 and will ban fully autonomous commercial trucks and require the presence of a human operator.

The Human Factor

Autonomous vehicles in Texas must comply with state and federal regulations to ensure they can operate on the roads safely. Still, self-driving trucks may encounter challenging situations such as road construction zones, unpredictable motorists, and changing traffic conditions. These scenarios may require human thought and discretion.

Even when a human operator is in a self-driving truck, it can make determining liability even more complicated. It can be difficult to determine the extent to which the human operator was involved and if they are at fault.

Complex Insurance Claims 

The insurance industry is also trying to adapt to the different risk profiles associated with autonomous truck crashes. The unique issues may require insurers to add new exclusions and clauses to their policies that address manufacturer product liability and software issues along with standard negligence.

Lengthier Claims Process 

Autonomous truck accidents can cause life-altering impairments, catastrophic injuries, and even wrongful death. Although victims and their families may be able to claim compensation, these cases do not have definitive statutes or case law to address the complex issues involved. As such, accident claims involving autonomous vehicles can take longer.

Call Our Truck Accident Attorney in San Antonio Today

Autonomous trucks may become even more common on the roads in Texas, highlighting the need to work with a San Antonio truck accident attorney after any crash. At the Law Office of Israel Garcia, our experienced attorney can help you through the process, ensure no mistakes are made and that your rights are protected. Call us now at 210-LAW-9999 or fill out our online form to request a consultation and to learn more.

Source:

ccjdigital.com/equipment-controls/article/15745897/texas-proposes-driverless-truck-ban