Autonomous vehicles are quickly becoming a reality on American roads, with Waymo at the forefront of this revolutionary shift. While self-driving technology promises to make travel safer, it is not without risks. As these vehicles navigate public streets in Texas, legal questions and safety concerns have come to the forefront, especially after high-profile incidents involving both injuries and property damage.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a crash involving a Waymo vehicle, finding the right personal injury lawyer is critical. This is where Joe I. Zaid & Associates steps in as a trusted resource for accident victims.
The Rise of Waymo in Texas
Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. (Google’s parent company), has logged over 50 million miles in fully autonomous operations across cities including Phoenix, San Francisco—and now, Texas. As of 2024, Texas has reported 20 documented incidents involving Waymo vehicles, according to compiled crash data. These incidents range from minor fender benders to more serious collisions. Importantly, federal regulations require that all significant accidents involving autonomous vehicles be reported, even if the Waymo car was not moving or not at fault.
With the growth of Waymo’s presence in Texas, the likelihood of becoming involved in a self-driving vehicle accident, either as a passenger, driver, cyclist, or pedestrian, is increasing. This developing area of law is complex and requires both an understanding of Texas liability statutes and the evolving nature of self-driving technology.
Types of Accidents Involving Waymo Cars
Waymo vehicles, by design, strictly follow the rules of the road. Most reported incidents are caused by human drivers — for example, running red lights, rear-ending a stopped Waymo, or erratic lane changes. However, there are instances where questions of fault are not clear-cut, particularly in multi-vehicle pileups or crashes involving depressed visibility or unpredictable road users (like cyclists).
In Texas, recent years have shown:
- 20 recorded Waymo incidents (2021–2024)
- Most did not result in serious injuries: data show a strong record for passenger and pedestrian safety, with the majority reporting no injuries or just minor harm.
- Injury claims are much lower than those involving human-operated vehicles. In documented studies, autonomous vehicles like Waymo were involved in approximately 81% fewer injury-causing crashes compared to human drivers operating in similar conditions.
- Insurance claims against Waymo are about 90% lower than for traditional vehicles.
Even so, property damage and bodily injury can and do occur, and each crash—no matter how rare—can leave victims facing stress, medical bills, wage loss, and other damages.
Legal Challenges in Waymo Accidents
Accidents involving self-driving cars raise unique legal questions:
- Who is liable when an autonomous vehicle is involved in a crash?
- Is the company responsible, the vehicle’s software or hardware manufacturer, or perhaps another road user?
- What regulations govern responsibility in these situations under Texas law?
Federal and Texas laws continue to develop in response to the growth of autonomous vehicles. A knowledgeable attorney must consider:
- Product liability (if a software or hardware malfunction contributed)
- Traditional negligence standards (for human drivers or company oversight)
- Insurance and claims disputes, especially when large corporations and insurance giants are involved
Given the imbalance of power and resources between individuals and tech giants, accident victims benefit greatly from an attorney who knows both the courtroom and the negotiating table.
Why You Need a Waymo Self-Driving Accident Lawyer
If you are hurt or suffer damages in a crash with a Waymo vehicle, you face unique hurdles:
- Gathering evidence: Autonomous vehicles constantly record sensor and camera data, which may be critical for your case—but it isn’t always easy to access.
- Understanding regulatory filings: Each crash triggers detailed federal and state reports, which your lawyer must skillfully analyze.
- Litigating or negotiating with multi-billion-dollar companies: Tech and insurance companies may use complex tactics to limit your compensation.
Joe I. Zaid, a seasoned Texas attorney can help you:
- Investigate the incident, including recovering black box and dashcam data
- Secure and analyze crash reports required by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
- Work with expert witnesses to explain how the technology may have contributed to the crash
- Handle dealings with insurance adjusters, who may dispute fault or downplay your injuries
- Represent you assertively in court or settle for a fair amount, as appropriate
Joe I. Zaid: A Proven Advocate for Accident Victims
Joe I. Zaid has built a reputation in Texas for dedicated, effective representation in personal injury and wrongful death cases. As managing partner of Joe I. Zaid & Associates since 2013, Joe has:
- Secured millions in settlements for his clients, including numerous cases with seven-figure outcomes
- Represented thousands in accidents ranging from minor fender benders to catastrophic injuries
- A client-centered approach, understanding both the financial and emotional toll of car accidents
- Previous experience working for a major insurance company, giving him insight into how insurers evaluate and contest claims
- Availability 24/7 for his clients, ensuring open communication at every step of the process
- Consistent recognition by his peers, including nominations as one of Houston’s Top Lawyers by H-Texas Magazine and as a Top 40 under 40 Trial Lawyer
Joe’s practice is built on diligence and thorough investigation. He is a member of professional groups such as the Houston Trial Lawyers Association and the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, continuously updating his knowledge of personal injury law as autonomous vehicle cases become more common.
Steps to Take After a Waymo Accident in Texas
If you are involved in an accident with a self-driving car:
- Call 911 to get immediate medical and police assistance.
- Document the scene with photos, videos, and witness contact information.
- Seek medical attention, even if you don’t feel hurt right away.
- Do not speak with insurance companies without first seeking legal advice. Insurers may attempt to obtain statements or reach a quick settlement.
- Contact an experienced attorney like Joe I. Zaid who understands the specific legal issues with self-driving vehicles.
Conclusion
As Waymo expands its Texas presence, autonomous vehicles are certain to factor into more traffic collisions, no matter how rare. While current data show that Waymo vehicles crash less frequently and cause fewer injuries than human drivers, it only takes a single accident to upend a life. If you need a car accident lawyer in Texas, Joe I. Zaid and his team bring the experience, resources, and dedication necessary to stand up to even the largest corporations—and help you recover what you deserve.
For a free consultation or urgent legal help, contact Joe I. Zaid & Associates today.
