Self-driving cars are becoming more common on Atlanta’s streets, with companies like Waymo expanding their autonomous vehicle testing and ridesharing services in the region. While these vehicles are equipped with advanced sensors and AI-powered driving systems, accidents can and do happen. If you are hit by a Waymo vehicle in the Atlanta area, it’s important to understand your rights and the steps to take.
Immediate Steps After the Accident
- Ensure Safety First
Check yourself and others for injuries. If necessary, move to a safe location away from traffic. - Call 911
Report the accident to the police immediately. In Georgia, a police report is often required if there are injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage. The responding officer will document the crash and file an official accident report. - Seek Medical Attention
Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries—such as concussions or whiplash—may not show symptoms immediately.
Documenting the Accident
- Take Photos and Videos of the scene, including vehicle positions, damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Collect Information: Get the name and contact details of any Waymo safety driver (if present), Waymo’s insurance representative (usually listed inside the vehicle), and contact details for witnesses.
- Save Digital Evidence: If the Waymo was operating autonomously, there may be dashcam or sensor data relevant to your case. Your attorney can request this evidence during the claims process.
Who Is Responsible in a Waymo Accident?
One of the most complex aspects of self-driving car accidents is determining liability. Unlike a traditional crash, where the at-fault driver is usually clear, a Waymo accident may involve multiple parties:
- Waymo / Alphabet (Google’s parent company) – If the autonomous system malfunctioned.
- The safety driver – If the accident happened while the human operator was in control.
- Other drivers – If another motorist contributed to or caused the collision.
Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning that you can still recover damages if you are less than 50% at fault, but your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Insurance and Compensation
Waymo carries commercial liability insurance for its vehicles, but dealing with a large corporation’s claims process can be overwhelming. Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Pain and suffering
Why You Should Contact an Attorney
Autonomous vehicle accidents involve unique legal challenges—including questions about technology failures, data access, and product liability. Having an attorney experienced in both personal injury and technology-related claims can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case.
An attorney can:
- Investigate the cause of the crash.
- Secure and preserve electronic data from the Waymo vehicle.
- Negotiate with corporate insurers.
- File a lawsuit if necessary to protect your rights.
Final Thoughts
If you are hit by a Waymo in the Atlanta area, don’t treat it like a “normal” accident. The presence of self-driving technology raises new questions about fault and responsibility. Protect yourself by taking the right steps at the scene, seeking medical care, and contacting a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who can guide you through the process.
Need help after a Waymo accident in Atlanta?
Call Landry Legal, PLLC at 888-914-0011 or email us at contact@landrypllc.com to schedule a free consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and fight to get you the compensation you deserve.