Self-driving cars — once the stuff of science fiction — are becoming an increasingly common sight on American roads. While Mississippi has yet to see full-scale adoption of autonomous vehicles, the legal implications are already raising important questions:
Who’s at fault if a self-driving car causes an accident? Can you sue a software company or manufacturer? What are your rights as a victim?

At The Jones Law Firm P.C., we’re keeping a close eye on how emerging technologies like self-driving vehicles are reshaping the legal landscape. Here’s what Mississippi drivers need to know about liability, safety, and legal protection in the age of automation.

Understanding Self-Driving Technology: What Counts as “Autonomous”?

The term “self-driving” can refer to a range of automation levels. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) classifies autonomous vehicles on a scale from Level 0 to Level 5:

• Level 0–2: Driver-assist technology (e.g., cruise control, lane assist)

• Level 3: Limited autonomy, but driver must take over when needed

• Level 4: Full autonomy under certain conditions

• Level 5: Fully autonomous with no driver input required at all

Most vehicles on the road today are Level 2 or 3 — meaning drivers must remain alert and in control. True driverless cars (Level 5) are still in development, but several Level 4 models are being tested in select cities across the U.S.

Mississippi Law on Self-Driving Cars

Mississippi currently has limited legislation specifically addressing self-driving cars, but as automation increases, new regulations are likely to follow. For now:

• The driver is still considered legally responsible in most cases.

• Vehicles must meet basic safety and operational standards.

• Liability may extend to software providers or manufacturers in specific circumstances.

Since laws in this area are evolving, it’s important to have an attorney who can navigate both traditional and emerging liability issues.

Who’s Liable in an Accident Involving a Self-Driving Car?

Liability in a crash involving a self-driving or semi-autonomous vehicle can be complex. Depending on the situation, several parties may share responsibility:

🔹 The Driver

Even if the car was in autonomous mode, the driver may still be liable if they failed to intervene appropriately — for example, by ignoring warnings or falling asleep at the wheel.

🔹 The Vehicle Manufacturer

If the accident was caused by a defect in the vehicle’s design, the automaker could be held liable under product liability laws.

🔹 The Software Company

If a bug or algorithm error in the self-driving system led to the crash, the software developer could bear partial or full responsibility.

🔹 A Third Party

If another driver, a pedestrian, or even poor road conditions contributed to the crash, fault could be shared under Mississippi’s comparative negligence laws.

Mississippi's Comparative Negligence Rule Still Applies

Under Mississippi law, you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. This is thanks to the pure comparative negligence rule.

• If you’re awarded $100,000 but found 40% at fault, your final compensation would be $60,000.

• Dash cam footage, vehicle data logs, and expert testimony become especially valuable in self-driving vehicle cases.

Whether the driver, software, or manufacturer shares responsibility, a thorough investigation is necessary to determine fault.

What to Do If You're in an Accident Involving a Self-Driving Car

If you’re injured in an accident involving an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle in Mississippi, you should take the following steps:

1. Call law enforcement to ensure the crash is officially documented.

2. Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries aren’t obvious.

3. Take photos and videos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any identifying details.

4. Get witness statements and contact information if available.

5. Do not speak to insurers before consulting an attorney — especially if the accident involves new or unfamiliar technology.

6. Preserve evidence, such as dash cam footage or photos of dashboard alerts.

Why Legal Representation Matters More Than Ever

Accidents involving self-driving vehicles often involve multiple layers of liability and complex technical evidence. Insurance companies may try to shift blame, and tech companies or automakers have legal teams ready to protect their interests.

That’s where The Jones Law Firm P.C. comes in.

Our team will:

• Conduct a full investigation to determine fault

• Work with accident reconstruction experts and tech analysts

• Preserve and review vehicle data and digital logs

• Navigate evolving product liability laws

• Fight for maximum compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering

We offer free consultations and only get paid when we win your case.

Final Thoughts

Self-driving vehicles are changing the way we drive — and the way we assign legal responsibility in accidents. As Mississippi’s roads evolve, so too must our approach to personal injury law.

If you’ve been involved in a crash involving an autonomous vehicle — or even a car with advanced driving assistance systems — don’t face the legal process alone. You deserve a legal team that understands both traditional accident law and the future of transportation.

📞 Injured in a Crash with a Self-Driving or High-Tech Vehicle?

Call The Jones Law Firm P.C. at (601) 540-2385 or email chad@chadjoneslawpc.com for a free consultation and legal guidance you can trust.