Waymo’s self-driving cars are becoming a common sight in some Florida cities, bringing both innovation and new legal challenges. If you’re involved in an accident with a Waymo vehicle—whether as a driver, cyclist, or pedestrian—you may be unsure who can be held responsible and how to pursue compensation. Traditional auto accident claims don’t always apply neatly in autonomous vehicle cases. Understanding how Florida law applies to these incidents is the first step toward protecting your rights.

Who’s Liable in a Waymo Accident in Florida?

Autonomous Vehicle Liability Is Still Evolving

Waymo operates autonomous vehicles (AVs) using advanced software and sensors instead of human drivers. When a crash occurs, pinpointing fault can be complex:

• Was the vehicle in full self-driving mode? If the Waymo was operating without a human driver, fault may lie with the vehicle’s programming or its operational failure.
• Was a Waymo employee or safety driver behind the wheel? If so, human error may still play a role.
• Did another driver cause the crash? Third-party negligence is also possible.

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles permits autonomous vehicles to operate without human drivers, making these vehicles subject to many of the same traffic laws as traditional cars. However, AV operators like Waymo carry specific insurance policies, and Florida law holds the company responsible for the vehicle’s behavior when operated in autonomous mode.

Corporate Responsibility vs. Product Liability

Two legal theories often arise in Waymo accident claims:

• Negligence by the operator: If Waymo failed to maintain or monitor its fleet properly, or if a human operator made a critical mistake, this falls under standard negligence law.
• Product liability: If the accident stemmed from a software malfunction or sensor error, the claim may shift to a product liability case—arguing the car was defective in design, manufacturing, or lacked adequate warnings.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim After a Waymo Crash

Florida’s No-Fault Rule and PIP Limitations

Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your own Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance typically covers initial medical bills and lost wages, regardless of fault. However, if your injuries are severe—resulting in significant or permanent damage—you can pursue a liability claim outside the no-fault system.

That’s where things become more complex. Unlike traditional crashes involving individual drivers, a lawsuit against Waymo may involve:

• A large corporation backed by a legal team
• Complicated insurance arrangements
• Potential federal regulatory implications if the technology itself is in question

Proving Fault in an AV Accident

To hold Waymo (or any AV operator) accountable, your legal team must investigate thoroughly. Evidence might include:

• Vehicle logs and internal data from the Waymo car
• Dashcam or traffic camera footage
• Statements from witnesses or first responders
• Software version and maintenance records

Securing this information promptly is vital, as companies may be reluctant to hand over proprietary data unless compelled.

Comparative Fault in Florida Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

Shared Fault Still Matters

Florida follows a modified comparative fault system, meaning you can recover damages even if you're partially at fault—so long as you are not more than 50% responsible. For example:

• If a pedestrian jaywalks and is hit by a Waymo vehicle that failed to brake properly, both parties might share blame.
• If another driver cuts off the Waymo vehicle, triggering an unavoidable crash, liability may rest with that driver.

Your percentage of fault will reduce any compensation awarded. That makes clear evidence and expert analysis critical in these cases.

Wrongful Death and Catastrophic Injury Claims

When a Waymo Crash Leads to Fatal Consequences

Sadly, not all AV accidents result in minor injuries. When a Waymo vehicle is involved in a crash causing death or life-altering injuries, surviving family members or victims may pursue claims for:

• Funeral costs and medical expenses
• Loss of financial support and companionship
• Emotional suffering and mental anguish

These cases may require a deeper dive into whether the vehicle’s autonomous features functioned properly—or whether a preventable failure occurred.

Steps to Take After an Accident with a Waymo Vehicle

1. Prioritize Your Safety and Medical Needs

As with any crash, seek immediate medical care even if injuries aren’t obvious. Adrenaline can mask pain, and documentation is essential for future claims.

2. Report the Incident

Call law enforcement to file an official report. Make sure to mention that a self-driving vehicle was involved.

3. Gather Evidence

• Take photos and videos of the scene
• Get contact info from witnesses
• Note any visible sensors, cameras, or company markings on the vehicle

4. Avoid Discussing Fault at the Scene

Do not speculate about who caused the accident or admit any fault. Stick to the facts when speaking with police or insurance representatives.

5. Contact an Attorney Experienced in AV Cases

These cases are not typical car accidents. Seek legal guidance from someone who understands Florida’s evolving laws on autonomous vehicle liability and can compel the release of critical data.

Why Waymo Accident Cases Require Specialized Legal Strategy

Big Tech Means Big Legal Teams

Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet (Google’s parent company), is a tech giant with extensive resources. They’re unlikely to settle without a detailed claim supported by expert analysis, clear evidence, and strong legal arguments.

Legal Precedents Are Still Being Formed

Because the technology is relatively new, there’s little case law to fall back on. Judges, juries, and insurers are still learning how to approach these claims, making your attorney’s strategy—and knowledge of this legal niche—especially important.

Conclusion

As autonomous vehicles like Waymo’s continue to expand their presence in Florida, legal systems are playing catch-up. If you’ve been involved in a Waymo accident, you’re not just navigating a car crash—you’re entering the uncharted territory of tech liability, corporate defense strategies, and evolving insurance frameworks. Partnering with a personal injury attorney who understands the nuances of AV law can make all the difference in your claim.

Injured? The Office of Brandon J. Broderick, Personal Injury Lawyers, Can Help

If the unfortunate happens and you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, don’t go it alone. An experienced lawyer can advocate for your best interest and pursue fair compensation for your damages. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, you can count on us to work tirelessly for your quality of life. Our long track record of success has helped people like you move forward after sustaining an injury caused by another’s negligence.

Contact us now for a free legal review.