Can You Sue Waymo if Their Robotaxi Hits You?

The short answer is yes. Waymo LLC is a legal entity that can be sued for injuries caused by its robotaxis. The longer answer involves understanding product liability law, corporate structure, and the emerging legal framework for autonomous vehicle accidents.

Waymo as a Product Manufacturer

The Waymo autonomous driving system is a product. Under product liability law—which exists in every U.S. state—manufacturers are liable for injuries caused by defective products. This applies to Waymo because:

• Waymo Designs the System: The software that controls the vehicle is Waymo's product
• Waymo Deploys the Vehicles: Waymo decides where and when to operate
• No Human Intervenes: The "driver" is Waymo's software, not a person
• Strict Liability Applies: Defective products create liability regardless of fault

What Legal Claims Can You Bring?

Product Liability Claims

• Design Defect: The AV system's design creates unreasonable danger
• Manufacturing Defect: Hardware failures in sensors or computing systems
• Failure to Warn: Inadequate warnings about system limitations

Negligence Claims

• Negligent Design: Failed to exercise reasonable care in system development
• Negligent Deployment: Operated in conditions beyond system capabilities
• Negligent Testing: Deployed before adequate safety verification
• Negligent Supervision: Remote operators failed to intervene when needed

The Cruise Settlement: Proof Robotaxi Companies Pay

In October 2023, a Cruise robotaxi struck a pedestrian in San Francisco and dragged her 20+ feet. The aftermath:

• California DMV: Revoked Cruise's deployment permit
• Settlement: Victim reportedly received $8-12 million
• Corporate Impact: GM suspended all Cruise operations nationwide
• Precedent: Established that robotaxi companies will pay for serious injuries

Waymo's Resources to Pay Claims

Unlike suing an individual driver who may have limited insurance, Waymo has substantial resources:

• Alphabet Parent Company: ~$2 trillion market cap
• Commercial Insurance: Waymo carries substantial liability coverage
• Corporate Assets: Billions in AV technology investments
• Settlement History: AV companies prefer settling to avoid precedent

NHTSA Crash Data Supports Claims

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requires Waymo to report crashes. This data shows:

• 1,270+ Waymo Incidents: Reported through June 2024
• 24% Cause Injuries: Nearly 1 in 4 crashes result in injuries
• Federal Oversight: NHTSA investigates AV safety issues
• Data Preservation: Crash records must be maintained

How to Sue Waymo: The Process

1. Document the Crash: Photos, police report, witness information
2. Seek Medical Care: Document all injuries and treatment
3. Preserve Evidence: Don't allow Waymo access to your data without attorney
4. Hire AV Attorney: These cases require specialized legal knowledge
5. File Lawsuit: Within your state's statute of limitations (usually 2 years)
6. Discovery: Obtain Waymo's crash data, sensor logs, and internal documents
7. Settlement or Trial: Most AV cases settle before trial

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Waymo try to settle quickly?

Yes. Waymo and Alphabet generally prefer settling claims to avoid negative publicity and legal precedent. However, quick settlement offers often undervalue claims. Having an attorney evaluate any offer is essential.

What if I was partially at fault?

Most states use comparative fault, which reduces your damages by your percentage of fault. You can still sue Waymo even if partially at fault, though some states bar recovery if you're 50% or more at fault.

How long do I have to sue?

Most states have a 2-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Some states have shorter deadlines. Contact an attorney promptly to preserve your rights.