Electric vehicles (EVs), including Tesla cars and Cybertrucks, offer significant benefits, including a reduction of emissions, lower maintenance costs, and state-of-the-art features such as Autopilot mode. However, with the widespread advent and popularity of EVs, they have also been known to pose elevated risks to drivers and passengers on roadways. If you’ve been involved in an accident with a Tesla car or Cybertruck in Indiana, you may be wondering about your options for pursuing a personal injury claim for injuries and damages.
A primary concern related to electric vehicles involves the risk of battery fires. Lithium-ion batteries, which are used in Teslas and most other EVs, can catch fire or explode if damaged, and these fires can be difficult to extinguish due to the chemical components of the battery. Therefore, a crash involving an EV and subsequent fire can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
While EVs are designed to be safe, there’s also a concern about their weight as they tend to be heavier than traditional vehicles due to their batteries. This added weight can increase the severity of accidents, especially in collisions with lighter vehicles.
Additionally, the use of advanced driving systems, such as Tesla’s Autopilot or Full Self-Driving modes, can lead to over-reliance on this type of technology. Drivers may become complacent, increasing the risk of accidents if the system fails or encounters a situation it cannot handle. Lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and self-parking still require active supervision from the driver and the system can struggle in complex driving situations, potentially leading to accidents if the driver isn’t paying full attention. As a result, there have been numerous accidents reported across the county related to Tesla’s Autopilot function.
Pursuing an EV personal injury claim in Indiana would be similar to any other auto accident. To proceed with a lawsuit, a plaintiff would need to establish that a Tesla driver was negligent and shared the majority of fault for the accident, leading to injuries and damages. Additionally, if it can be established that the known risks of an EV, as outlined above, contributed to the accident, a skilled personal injury lawyer will be able to strengthen a case which will result in a more favorable outcome.
Before filing a lawsuit, it’s common to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance to seek compensation. If the insurance settlement offer is insufficient or denied, taking the case to trial may be necessary. Consulting with an experienced personal injury attorney at Hurst Limontes familiar with Indiana law can help you navigate the process effectively and efficiently.
If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident with a Telsa or other EV, contact our office to discuss your legal options. We have over 100 years of combined experience between our attorneys representing clients in various personal injury claims. We work on a contingency basis, meaning there is no cost to you unless we reach a settlement or jury verdict award on your behalf.
Call 317-636-0808 or complete the form below for a FREE and confidential consultation.
