The Evolution of Tort Law in Autonomous Vehicle Accidents

Abstract

The rapid advancement of autonomous vehicle (AV) technology is reshaping transportation systems worldwide while simultaneously challenging traditional legal frameworks governing civil liability. Tort law, historically centered on human fault and negligence, faces unprecedented complexities when applied to accidents involving self-driving vehicles, where decision-making may be delegated to algorithms, sensors, and artificial intelligence systems. This study examines how tort law is evolving to address liability in autonomous vehicle accidents, focusing on negligence, strict liability, product liability, and emerging hybrid approaches. It analyzes the shifting allocation of responsibility among drivers, manufacturers, software developers, and infrastructure providers. Using doctrinal legal analysis supported by comparative insights from jurisdictions actively regulating AV technology, the research evaluates whether existing legal doctrines are sufficient or require reform. The findings suggest that traditional fault-based systems are increasingly inadequate for fully autonomous contexts, prompting a gradual transition toward product-centric liability models and regulatory frameworks emphasizing safety standards, data transparency, and insurance mechanisms. The study concludes that a balanced approach combining tort reform, technological accountability, and consumer protection is essential to ensure both innovation and public safety in the era of automated mobility.