While so much new technology exists to make our lives easier with modern conveniences, there are aspects of these that could also make your everyday life more challenging or even cause physical, mental or emotional harm.
When you think about a faulty product that would lead to a product liability case, you often think of something that has structurally failed… brakes, seat belts, engine malfunctions… but in the current high-tech world we’re living in, tech products can also fail through coding errors, security issues, and more.
Potential AV Issues That Lead to Crashes
While AVs are at the forefront of technology, there are various technical limitations that can lead to crashes.
- Inclement weather like fog, snow and heavy rain can not only affect a driver’s visibility, but also the cameras and sensors AVs use to see other vehicles, lane markers and road obstructions.
- Unexpected encounters like traffic pattern changes and construction zones can make navigation difficult for AVs.
- System failures are possible in AVs just like any other software system. An AV is a giant computer on wheels, and a system failure in a moving vehicle can cause catastrophic crashes.
- Cybersecurity issues are also a potential hazard and vulnerable to remote hacking. If someone were to hack into an AV system, they could possibly gain control of the steering, braking and other systems while the car is moving.
Recent Product Liability Cases Involving Technology
In just the past three years, multiple cases have been filed against autonomous vehicle (AV) manufacturers. In 2025, a Tesla Autopilot case led to a $243 million verdict as a Florida jury found Tesla partially liable for a 2019 fatal crash. The case was based on arguments that Autopilot was misrepresented as being safer than it was and overstating automation capabilities. In 2023, Tesla won an Autopilot case against them for a different 2019 crash. This case centered around driver responsibility and a failure to follow instructions.
How to Keep Yourself and Those Around You Safe
If you purchase or drive an AV, it’s important to read and understand all of the vehicle’s capabilities, limitations and safety features before taking the car for a drive. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has also provided some AV timelines, guidelines and FAQs. But here are some important reminders for AV drivers:
- Always pay attention to your surroundings when an AV is in motion
- Keep manual operating controls active, so you can take control in the event of a system issue or unexpected event on the roadway
- With any technological device, it’s important to understand and follow the operating instructions, capabilities, maintenance, etc.
How AVs are Affected by Product Liability
Product liability laws will continue to evolve as technology evolves. Protecting consumers and holding the businesses and manufacturers accountable is more important than ever. While there is federal legislation proposed, product liability is most often governed by state-level common law. In Ohio, product liability is mostly governed by the Ohio Products Liability Act.
These laws exist to protect consumers when the products they purchase are defective and/or cause harm. With the technology of today, these cases can become even more complex when the technology, software, and AI fail or malfunction.
Personal injury and product liability lawsuits are important to ensure that change happens to protect future consumers and their families. If you have experienced an injury or loss due to a malfunctioning high-tech product, the team at Lowe Trial Lawyers is here for you.