Can I Sue After a Waymo Car Accident in Burbank or Los Angeles County?

Waymo’s self-driving cars – once a sci-fi concept – are now navigating the busy streets of Los Angeles County, including areas around Burbank. With autonomous vehicles sharing the road, many Southern Californians are asking: “If I’m in an accident with a Waymo car, can I sue and who can be held responsible?” The short answer is yes – you can pursue legal action after a Waymo car accident, just as you would after any other auto collision. However, these cases involve unique challenges and questions of liability. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain your legal rights after a Waymo or other autonomous vehicle accident, using local L.A. context and real case examples. We’ll also discuss what steps to take after such an accident, how insurance comes into play, and why having an experienced Waymo accident attorney in Burbank or Los Angeles is crucial for protecting your rights.

Before diving into the legal details, it’s important to understand the backdrop. Los Angeles County consistently has one of the highest traffic accident rates in California [1]. In fact, Los Angeles County averages about 110 motor vehicle accidents per daythat result in injuries or fatalities [1]. Over a year, that adds up to thousands of crashes. Closer to home, Burbank saw 596 people killed or injured in traffic collisions in 2022 alone [2], reflecting significant road dangers at the local level. With such heavy traffic and accident statistics, the introduction of autonomous vehicles like Waymo’s robo-taxis adds a new dimension to road safety conversations in our area. Waymo advertises its technology as a way to eventually reduce human error and accidents. Yet as early incidents have shown, accidents involving self-driving cars can and do happen, raising complex questions about fault and liability.

A Waymo Jaguar I-PACE self-driving taxi in Los Angeles. Waymo’s autonomous ride-hailing vehicles have become an increasingly common sight on L.A. city streets [3].

Waymo Self-Driving Cars in Los Angeles County – A New Reality on the Roads

Waymo, a subsidiary of Google’s parent company Alphabet, launched its fully driverless ride-hailing service (Waymo One) in Phoenix and San Francisco, and has now expanded into Los Angeles County [4][5]. As of late 2024, Waymo began offering 24/7 autonomous taxi rides across roughly 79–120 square miles of L.A. – covering areas like Santa Monica, Hollywood, USC, and downtown Los Angeles [6][4]. This expansion means Burbank and surrounding communities may soon see Waymo vehicles cruising local streets and freeways. Indeed, nearly 300,000 Angelenos joined Waymo’s waitlist when the service first launched [7], and riders have already taken hundreds of thousands of driverless trips around the city.

Los Angeles is infamous for its heavy traffic and complex freeway system, so it’s no surprise Waymo spent significant time testing and refining its technology before hitting our roads [8][9]. The company touts an impressive safety record in testing: in its first million miles driving with no human behind the wheel, Waymo reported only 18 “minor-contact” crashes – and claimed that human drivers’ errors were responsible for all 18 incidents [10]. This suggests the technology itself was not deemed at fault in those events. Waymo and other autonomous vehicle (AV) companies also argue that robots don’t drive drunk, speed recklessly, or get distracted by texts – problems that cause many of L.A.’s daily accidents [11]. In theory, wider adoption of autonomous cars could reduce the staggering number of crashes. Los Angeles County currently averages 1,059 traffic fatalities each year (including 375 pedestrian deaths) and about 70,000 crash-related injuries treated in ERs [12] – sobering figures highlighting our road safety challenges. Advocates hope driverless tech will eventually bring those numbers down.

However, the transition to autonomy hasn’t been perfectly smooth. High-profile incidents show that self-driving cars can still be involved in collisions, sometimes with perplexing circumstances. For example, in October 2023 a Cruise autonomous taxi (a Waymo competitor) in San Francisco collided with a pedestrian under unusual conditions – a human-driven car hit the pedestrian first, throwing her in front of the driverless Cruise vehicle, which then failed to stop immediately and tragically dragged the victim along the roadway [13][14]. The woman was severely injured, and Cruise attributed the incident to a software malfunction. That case led to the California DMV suspending Cruise’s robotaxi permit and a settlement with the victim [14][15]. While that was not a Waymo vehicle, it underscores that autonomous vehicle accidents can cause serious harm, and the companies operating these cars may be held responsible for failures of their technology.

Even Waymo has had its incidents. In one recent event, a Waymo car in San Francisco stopped in a bike lane and a passenger opened the door into a passing cyclist. The cyclist was “doored” by the Waymo and thrown from her bike, suffering a traumatic brain injury and other harm [16]. She has since filed a lawsuit against Waymo in federal court, arguing that the Waymo vehicle’s improper stop in a no-parking zone and its passenger’s actions caused her injuries [16]. And in December 2025, a Waymo robotaxi in S.F. struck a dog in the street, an incident that – while not involving human injury – reignited debate about AV safety protocols [17]. These examples illustrate that accidents involving autonomous cars do occur, even if the companies insist such crashes are rare. For anyone injured in a collision with a Waymo vehicle (or any self-driving car), the key question becomes: Who can be held liable and what are your rights?

How Are Autonomous Vehicle Accidents Different from Regular Car Crashes?

At first glance, a crash involving a Waymo car might look like any other traffic accident – there’s vehicle damage, possible injuries, and insurance claims to file. But legally and practically, autonomous vehicle accidents introduce unique challenges. The biggest difference is obvious: there’s no human driver behind the wheel of the Waymo. In a typical car accident, one or more drivers’ negligence (speeding, running a red light, distraction, etc.) is usually the cause. With a driverless car, we have to rethink what “driver negligence” means. If a Waymo vehicle causes a collision, who exactly is at fault? Is it the passenger riding in the Waymo (who isn’t actually controlling the car), the company that developed the self-driving software, a remote operator overseeing the vehicle, or perhaps the vehicle’s manufacturer?

Current trends in law indicate that liability for autonomous car crashes is shifting toward the vehicle’s manufacturers and operators rather than any occupant. As legal scholars have noted, when there’s no human at the wheel, the focus naturally turns to the companies that designed, programmed, and deployed the technology [18]. In other words, Waymo (and by extension its parent company Alphabet/Google) may stand in the shoes of the “driver” for purposes of responsibility. Waymo’s vehicles are governed by complex algorithms and sensors; if those systems fail to act as a reasonably safe driver would, the fault likely lies with Waymo’s software engineers or vehicle designers rather than a traditional motorist. For example, in one of the first widely reported autonomous vehicle fatalities – a 2018 incident involving an Uber self-driving test car in Tempe, AZ – investigations found that the car’s software misidentified a pedestrian (Elaine Herzberg) as a “false positive,” failed to brake, and tragically struck and killed her [19]. The victim’s family sued Uber (the operator of the AV) for wrongful death; Uber settled the case out of court [20]. While Uber’s backup safety driver was found to be streaming video on her phone and was criminally charged for not intervening [21], the absence of a fully attentive human driver put much of the spotlight on the autonomous system’s design. This and similar cases herald a new paradigm: companies can be held accountable when their self-driving tech makes deadly mistakes.

Because autonomous vehicles remove human decision-making from the immediate equation, they also blur some lines between negligence and product liability. If a Waymo car causes a crash, one could argue a product defect in the self-driving system (e.g. a sensor failure or coding bug) was to blame – making it a product liability case against Waymo/Google or the vehicle manufacturer. On the other hand, if the AV simply didn’t react the way a reasonably careful driver should, one could frame it as negligence by the company in programming the AI’s decision-making. In practice, a victim’s lawsuit might include both theories. For instance, the cyclist “dooring” case in San Francisco involves claims that Waymo was negligent in allowing its car to stop where it did. One could imagine also alleging a failure in Waymo’s training of passengers or a failure to warn passengers to look for cyclists – a novel twist on liability that wouldn’t exist in a human-driven taxi case.

Another difference in AV accidents is the evidence involved. With a human-driven crash, evidence often comes from eyewitnesses, police reports, skid marks, and possibly surveillance video. In an autonomous vehicle, detailed sensor data and logs are recorded by the car’s onboard systems. Waymo vehicles are equipped with 360° cameras, lidar, radar, and computer logs that record every action (steering, braking, etc.) and detection. These data can be a goldmine in determining exactly what happened – for example, whether the Waymo “saw” the other car or pedestrian and how it responded. However, accessing that data isn’t straightforward for an injured person; it belongs to the company. Waymo has at times been protective of its collision data – even suing the California DMV to keep certain records from public disclosure [22]. After an accident, you can expect Waymo’s technical teams and lawyers to pore over the vehicle’s logs. Your attorney will likely need to subpoena that evidence or work with experts to interpret it. This makes AV cases more complex and expert-intensive than a typical fender-bender case.

Despite these differences, one thing remains the same: if you’re injured due to an autonomous vehicle’s actions, you have the right to seek compensation. The core legal question is whether the autonomous car (and by extension its owner/operator) acted negligently or is responsible under a product liability theory. In the next sections, we’ll break down who you can sue after a Waymo car accident and what legal grounds you can use.

Legal Rights of Victims: Can You Sue Waymo After a Self-Driving Car Accident?

Yes – if you were hurt in an accident involving a Waymo self-driving car, you absolutely can pursue a lawsuit for damages. Autonomous vehicles are not above the law. California’s legal system provides remedies for those injured by another’s wrongful acts or negligence, and that applies whether the wrongdoer is a human or a corporation operating a robotaxi. In fact, California has been updating its laws to ensure AV companies like Waymo are held accountable. A new state law effective in 2024 explicitly allows authorities to cite the company operating a driverless vehicle for traffic violations – since there’s no human driver to ticket [23]. This change was prompted by an incident in San Bruno (San Mateo County) where police observed a Waymo car make an illegal U-turn but initially had “no legal mechanism” to issue a ticket with no driver present [24][25]. Now, a “Notice of Autonomous Vehicle Noncompliance” can be issued to the AV’s operator (e.g., Waymo) for breaking traffic laws [26]. The message is clear: Waymo and similar companies must follow the same rules of the road and can be held responsible for violations [23]. If a Waymo vehicle runs a red light or behaves negligently and causes a crash, Waymo can be held liable just as a human driver would be.

From a victim’s perspective, suing after a Waymo accident is conceptually similar to any car accident claim – you need to identify the parties at fault and establish how their negligence (or product defect) caused your injuries. Here are the potential parties and legal theories that may come into play in a Waymo accident lawsuit:

Waymo/Alphabet (Company Liability) – In most cases, if the Waymo vehicle is at fault, you will be suing Waymo (the company) itself. Waymo owns and operates the fleet, so it is responsible for the behavior of its autonomous “drivers.” A lawsuit could allege that Waymo was negligent in the operation of the vehicle or in the design of its self-driving technology. For example, if the Waymo’s sensors failed to detect your car or the AI made an unsafe decision that a prudent human driver would not have made, you’d argue Waymo’s system was negligent. Since Waymo is a corporate entity, it acts through its technology and employees – but California law now firmly treats the company as the “operator” of the vehicle in the absence of a human driver[26]. This means Waymo can be directly liable for any breach of duty on the road. Waymo might also be vicariously liable for any human errors by its agents, such as a remote support driver (if one was monitoring the ride) or a test driver (in scenarios where a safety driver was behind the wheel and intervened improperly). However, in fully driverless operations, vicarious liability is less relevant since no human is actively driving; the buck stops with Waymo’s autonomous system.
Product Liability (Manufacturers and Designers) – If the accident was caused by a defect in the vehicle or its software, you might have a product liability claim. For instance, suppose a sudden software glitch caused the Waymo to accelerate unexpectedly, or a sensor manufactured by a third party malfunctioned. In that case, you could claim a design or manufacturing defect. Waymo, as the integrator of the self-driving system, would likely be a defendant in a product case, as could any automotive manufacturer involved (Waymo’s current fleet includes vehicles by Jaguar and other automakers). Under product liability law, manufacturers are held strictly liable for defective products that cause injury. A “defective product” in this context could be the self-driving software, the vehicle’s hardware (brakes, etc.), or even the lack of adequate safety features or warnings. Notably, courts are already examining how traditional product liability principles apply to autonomous tech [27] [28] – it’s an evolving area, but victims are entitled to argue that an AV was “unsafe for its intended use.” For example, if evidence shows the Waymo’s software didn’t properly recognize pedestrians in a crosswalk, that could be viewed as a design defect.
Human Third Parties – Not every accident involving a Waymo is the AV’s fault. Often, another human driver’s negligence contributes to or solely causes the crash. If another car ran a red light and hit you while you were riding in a Waymo (or hit the Waymo which then hit you), that human driver is liable like in any other accident. You can sue that driver (and their insurance should cover your damages). In many cases, there may be shared fault – perhaps the human driver was mostly to blame, but the Waymo failed to react as a reasonable driverless car should have, making the collision worse. California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning multiple parties can share fault by percentage. You could potentially have claims against both Waymo and the human driver, letting the jury or insurance adjusters apportion fault. As a victim, you’d want to include all responsible parties in your lawsuit to maximize your chances of full compensation.
Waymo Passengers or Other Individuals – Could a passenger in a Waymo be liable? It’s unlikely, but not impossible. Generally, a passenger has no control, so they aren’t responsible for the vehicle’s movements. However, if a passenger affirmatively did something that caused the accident (for example, grabbed the wheel or, as in the S.F. cyclist case, opened a door into traffic), that person could bear some blame. In the cyclist’s lawsuit, the injured rider is effectively blaming Waymo and possibly the passenger for the dooring. Waymo, for its part, may argue the passenger was negligent by not checking for bikes. It will be up to the courts to sort out fault in such scenarios. But as an injured party, you likely would focus your claim on the deep-pocketed company (Waymo) which has the duty to operate its service safely – including where it stops and how it instructs riders. Another possible party could be a remote operator in the loop. While Waymo’s fully autonomous cars don’t have a human driver, they do have a support team available to help via phone or computer if the car gets confused. If evidence showed a remote support staffer gave a bad instruction that led to a crash, that could be another angle (though a rare fact pattern).

To succeed in a lawsuit, you’ll need to prove you suffered damages (injuries, financial losses, etc.) and that those damages were caused by the accident in question. The types of compensation (damages) you can recover after a Waymo accident are the same as in other personal injury cases: medical expenses, future medical care costs, lost wages or income (including future earning capacity if your injuries affect your work), pain and suffering, mental anguish, and other related losses. If the accident caused a tragic fatality, the family of the deceased can bring a wrongful death claim seeking damages for funeral costs, loss of support and companionship, and more. California law allows these suits for any wrongful death caused by another’s negligence – again, it makes no exception for deaths caused by autonomous vehicles [29].

Importantly, California’s statute of limitations for personal injury and wrongful death is generally two years [29]. That means you have two years from the date of the crash (or death) to file a lawsuit in court. If you wait longer than two years, you will likely lose your right to sue [30]. (There are some exceptions that can extend deadlines, but they are limited.) Two years can pass quickly, especially when dealing with medical treatment and the complexities of an AV claim, so it’s wise to consult an attorney as soon as possible after the accident to preserve your rights.

In summary, you are legally eligible to sue after a Waymo car accident if you were hurt or a loved one was hurt/killed due to the collision. The defendants might include Waymo, other drivers, or product manufacturers depending on the circumstances. Next, we’ll move from the legal theory to the practical steps: what should you do immediately after an autonomous vehicle accident to protect your health and your potential claim?

Steps to Take After a Waymo Car Accident (or Any Autonomous Vehicle Crash)

If you’re involved in a collision with a Waymo self-driving car (whether as another driver, a passenger in the Waymo, a pedestrian, or cyclist), the moments and days following the crash are critical. Safety and health come first, but you also want to preserve evidence and set the stage for a successful claim. Here are key steps to take after an autonomous vehicle accident:

Ensure Safety and Call 911: Immediately check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call 911 and request medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, calling the police to the scene is important for an accident report. With an autonomous car, do not assume it will call 911 for you – Waymo vehicles might alert their operations center, but you should still make the call if able. Move to a safe location if you’re in traffic, but do not leave the scene.
Seek Medical Attention: Get medical evaluation as soon as possible, either at the scene or by visiting a hospital/doctor right after. Some injuries (whiplash, concussions, internal injuries) may not show immediate symptoms, so a prompt check-up is vital. Not only is this important for your health, but medical records will also document your injuries were caused by the accident.
Report the Accident to Police: When officers arrive, provide a clear and factual account of what happened. Because autonomous vehicle accidents are still new, make sure the police understand it involved a driverless car. The police report will be an important piece of evidence. If for some reason police do not come (e.g., in a minor fender-bender where they are not dispatched), you should file a report yourself with the local DMV or police within 24 hours if there are injuries or significant property damage.
Gather Information at the Scene: Treat it similarly to a normal crash in terms of info-gathering. Exchange information – in this case, get Waymo’s contact information. The Waymo car should have identification like a vehicle ID number or license plate. If there’s a Waymo representative or safety driver present (for example, during testing with a driver), get their name and employer info. Also exchange info with any other drivers involved. Importantly, get contact information for witnesses. Bystanders might have seen the accident or even taken video; their testimony could be invaluable, especially if there’s any dispute about what happened.
Document the Scene: Use your phone to take photos and videos. Capture the positions of the vehicles, damage to all vehicles, skid marks or lack thereof, traffic signals, and the surrounding scene. If you were a Waymo passenger, take screenshots of your ride details in the app (if possible) and any messages the Waymo vehicle displayed during or after the crash. In one Waymo incident, a passenger noted that the car’s screen displayed a message that it was contacting support after a sudden stop[31] – details like that could be relevant. Photographic evidence can later help accident reconstruction experts and serve as proof of damage.
Avoid Making Admissions or Statements on Fault: Understandably, an accident with a driverless car can be confusing and you might be inclined to ask the Waymo rep or company “What happened?” or apologize if you think you might partly be to blame. It’s generally wise not to admit fault or speculate about the cause at the scene. Stick to facts when talking to police. You will have time later to determine fault with the help of experts. Anything you say (to police, witnesses, or Waymo’s people) could later be used in investigations or litigation. Also, be cautious about social media – don’t post details about the accident or your injuries in a way that could be misconstrued.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Just like any accident, you should report it to your auto insurance if you were driving a vehicle or are a covered passenger. If you were driving another car that collided with the Waymo, your own insurance needs to know, especially if there’s vehicle damage. Provide basic facts but again, avoid speculating on fault until the investigation is complete. If you were a Waymo passenger, you may not have an obvious insurance to call, but if you personally have auto insurance, it’s wise to inform them in case any coverage (like medical payments or uninsured motorist coverage) applies. Do not give detailed recorded statements to Waymo’s insurance or representatives without legal advice.
Preserve Evidence: Keep any dashcam footage if you had a dashcam running. Save copies of the Waymo ride receipt or confirmation if you were a passenger. If you notice any nearby surveillance cameras (from businesses or homes) that might have caught the crash, note them and inform your attorney so footage can be requested before it’s erased. Essentially, think of anything that could later help prove what happened.
Consult an Experienced Attorney: As soon as you’re able, reach out to a personal injury attorney familiar with autonomous vehicle cases. These cases involve novel issues, lots of technical data, and typically a large company on the other side. A lawyer can help protect your rights, handle communications with Waymo and insurance companies, and start investigating immediately. Many personal injury firms (including ours) offer free consultations, so you can get an initial case evaluation at no cost. Do not delay – remember the legal time limits and the importance of early investigation. Having a knowledgeable Waymo accident attorney by your side early can make a significant difference in the outcome.

By following these steps, you’ll be taking care of your health and laying the groundwork for a strong claim. Next, let’s talk specifically about how insurance works in autonomous car accidents – an important practical aspect of getting compensated.

Dealing with Insurance After a Waymo Car Accident

Insurance coverage in an autonomous vehicle accident can be a bit more complex than a standard two-car crash, but the fundamental goal is the same: identify which insurance policies should compensate you for your losses. Here’s what you need to know about insurance issues after a Waymo accident:

Waymo’s Insurance Coverage: Waymo, like all companies operating vehicles in California, is required to carry substantial liability insurance. In fact, California’s Department of Motor Vehicles and Public Utilities Commission mandate significant insurance or surety bonds for autonomous vehicle operators (often at least $5 million in coverage) [32]. This means if a Waymo vehicle is at fault for an accident that injures you, Waymo’s insurance should cover your injury claims up to high policy limits. In practice, Waymo is a well-funded company and will have the resources (through insurance or self-insurance) to pay legitimate claims. After an accident, you (or your attorney) will likely file a claim with Waymo’s insurance carrier. Be prepared: large companies often have insurers and adjusters who will investigate carefully, and they may attempt to minimize or deny liability at first. Having evidence from the scene and an attorney to advocate for you will help in negotiations with Waymo’s insurer.
Other Driver’s Insurance: If another human driver contributed to the crash, you would file claims with that driver’s auto insurance as well. For example, imagine you were a passenger in a Waymo when another car sideswiped the Waymo. If that other driver ran a stop sign or otherwise drove negligently, their liability insurance should cover your injuries. This is no different from a regular accident – you pursue the at-fault driver’s policy. Many accidents are not black-and-white on fault, so you might end up with multiple insurance claims (Waymo’s and another driver’s), essentially letting the insurers sort out comparative fault. Your attorney can help ensure that each party’s insurance is put on notice and that you don’t miss out on coverage.
Your Own Insurance (UM/UIM Coverage): What if the at-fault party doesn’t have enough insurance? This can happen if an accident is caused entirely by a human driver who carries low coverage, or conceivably if a freak incident involved an uninsured vehicle colliding with the Waymo. In such cases, Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage from your own auto policy can help. UM coverage steps into the shoes of an at-fault uninsured driver. UIM kicks in when the at-fault driver’s policy limits are too low to fully compensate your damages. If you have your own auto insurance and you’re injured in a Waymo accident due to a third-party driver, don’t forget about this coverage. Additionally, because Waymo is effectively a commercial carrier (like a taxi service), it’s very possible that Waymo’s own policy includes UM coverage for its passengers. Rideshare companies like Uber and Lyft are required in California to provide $1 million in UM coverage for their passengers; Waymo’s service, being similar, may have a comparable benefit. This could cover a Waymo passenger if, say, a hit-and-run driver struck the Waymo and fled. The specifics of Waymo’s insurance policies aren’t advertised, but an experienced attorney will investigate all coverage avenues, including any special policies Waymo has for riders.
Medical Payments (Med Pay) Coverage: If you carry Med Pay on your auto policy, it can cover your medical bills up to a certain limit, regardless of who was at fault. This is especially relevant if you were riding in the Waymo or walking/biking and don’t have the typical auto liability coverage to tap for immediate bills. Med Pay is no-fault coverage; for example, $5,000 of Med Pay could quickly cover an ER visit or ambulance ride while the larger liability questions are sorted out.
Dealing with Adjusters: Soon after the accident, you may be contacted by insurance adjusters – possibly from Waymo’s insurer or the other driver’s insurer. They might ask for a recorded statement or ask you to sign a medical records release. Exercise caution here. It’s generally wise to consult your attorney before giving statements or signing anything for the other side’s insurance. Adjusters may seem friendly, but their job is often to protect their company’s money – which can mean trying to pin blame on someone else or downplay your injuries. Refer them to your attorney once you have one. If you haven’t hired a lawyer yet, stick to the basic facts and do not admit fault. You are not obligated to give a recorded statement at that stage.
Property Damage Claims: If your vehicle was hit by a Waymo, you’ll also deal with the property damage claim for your car. Typically, Waymo’s insurance should cover repairs or total loss value for your vehicle if Waymo was at fault. If another driver was involved, their insurance might handle it. This usually runs parallel to the injury claim. Just be sure not to inadvertently sign a full release of all claims if you only intend to settle the property damage – it’s another reason having legal counsel is beneficial, to avoid any pitfalls.
Settlement vs. Lawsuit: In many cases, if fault is clear (for example, the Waymo was clearly responsible and there’s solid evidence), the insurance parties might be open to settling your claim without a lawsuit. Settlements can compensate you for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. However, because autonomous vehicle cases are high-stakes and new, insurers might fight harder or take longer to evaluate claims. Waymo in particular may be cautious about setting precedents and could be very thorough in investigating. If settlement talks stall or the offer is insufficient to cover your losses, you will need to file a lawsuit within the statute of limitations to push the matter forward. Lawsuits against large companies like Waymo often lead to extensive discovery (exchange of evidence) – including obtaining the vehicle’s data recordings, internal safety reports, and deposition testimony from Waymo’s experts or employees. This can be complex, but it is sometimes necessary to get full compensation. Keep in mind that Waymo (and its parent Alphabet) have significant legal resources; having your own legal team equalizes the playing field when dealing with their insurers and attorneys.

In summary, multiple layers of insurance may be involved in a Waymo accident. The good news is that there are usually substantial funds available (via corporate policies) to cover your claim, as opposed to a bare-bones individual policy. The challenge is navigating the claims process and liability disputes. This is where having a knowledgeable lawyer pays off – they can identify all possible sources of coverage and handle communications to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Next, we’ll discuss why choosing the right attorney – particularly someone experienced in autonomous vehicle accidents – is so important. We’ll also highlight how our firm’s local experience in Burbank and Los Angeles can benefit you in a Waymo accident case.

Why You Need an Experienced Waymo Accident Attorney in Burbank or Los Angeles

Facing off against a tech giant like Waymo (Google) in an accident claim is not a simple DIY project. These are cutting-edge cases that combine elements of personal injury law, product liability, vehicle technology, and even regulatory law. If you’ve been injured in a Waymo car accident in Burbank, Los Angeles, or anywhere in Southern California, it’s crucial to have a capable advocate on your side. Here’s why hiring a Waymo accident attorney – especially a local attorney familiar with Los Angeles County – can make a huge difference:

Understanding Autonomous Vehicle Law: Autonomous vehicle litigation is still uncharted territory in many respects. A lawyer who stays updated on California’s evolving laws (like the new AV liability statutes) and who understands how to argue negligence vs. product defect in an AV context will be better equipped to build a strong case. For example, proving a Waymo was “negligent” might require translating technical log data into plain English for a jury, or consulting with automotive engineers. Our legal team has the knowledge and expert contacts to tackle these challenges head-on.
Investigation and Evidence Gathering: As mentioned, getting evidence from Waymo (like sensor data and video) often requires swift and strategic legal action. An experienced attorney will send preservation-of-evidence letters to Waymo immediately, to prevent any data from being overwritten or lost. We know what documents to demand – from the vehicle’s maintenance and software logs to Waymo’s safety protocols and prior incident reports. In one well-known case, Waymo attempted to keep certain crash data secret by claiming trade secrets [22], but a determined legal approach can petition the court to compel disclosure if it’s vital to your case. We also know how to obtain traffic camera footage, interface with police investigators, and track down witnesses in Los Angeles’ urban environment. In short, we leave no stone unturned in finding proof of fault.
Dealing with Big Tech Defense Teams: Waymo/Google will likely have a defense team (and insurance lawyers) whose job is to minimize payouts. They may argue that the Waymo vehicle was not at fault or that your injuries aren’t as severe as claimed. Going up against such resources can be intimidating. Having your own aggressive attorney levels the playing field. We are experienced in negotiating with large insurers and corporations. If they refuse to offer a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to litigate in court. Our firm’s trial experience is a signal to the other side that we won’t back down – we will present a compelling case to a jury if needed.
Knowledge of Local Roads and Conditions: As Burbank and L.A. locals, we understand the driving environment here. We know the accident “hot spots” and dangerous intersections (for instance, Victory Boulevard in Burbank or the complex freeway interchanges in downtown LA [33][34]). This local knowledge helps us contextualize your accident. Perhaps the Waymo had trouble at a particularly confusing junction – we can explain that to a jury. Our attorneys live and work in the community, so we also know the Los Angeles County court system and its procedures. Whether your case is filed in Los Angeles Superior Court or in federal court (if Waymo moves it there), we are familiar with the venues and have a network of local experts (accident reconstructionists, medical specialists, etc.) who can support your claim.
Maximizing Your Compensation: An experienced Waymo accident attorney in Burbank or Los Angeles will know how to properly value your claim. We don’t just tally up your medical bills; we work with you and perhaps economic experts to understand the full scope of your losses. This includes future treatment needs (if you have ongoing rehab or will need future surgeries), lost earning capacity if you can’t return to the same work, and a fair dollar value for your pain, suffering, and emotional distress from the accident. These cases can be high-value, especially if serious injury or disability is involved. Our job is to present a compelling case for every element of damage, countering any attempts by the defense to downplay them.
Our Track Record and Accolades: Not all personal injury firms are equal. You want someone with a proven history of success in complex and high-stakes cases. At Djougourian Law Corp (DJ Law Corp), we pride ourselves on being fierce advocates for our clients. Our firm has recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for injury victims across Southern California. For example, we secured a $3.8 million verdict in a collision case [35] and have obtained numerous six- and seven-figure recoveries in tough injury cases. Our founding attorney, Arthur Djougourian, is an award-winning trial lawyer recognized for excellence throughout the region – he was honored as a Super Lawyers Rising Star in 2022 [36], a distinction given to the top young attorneys. We bring the same dedication and relentless work ethic to every case, big or small. When you hire us, you get personal attention and a team truly committed to your cause.
Personalized Local Service: Being based in Burbank, we offer the kind of attentive service you expect from a community-oriented firm, combined with the skill set of a larger firm. You’ll communicate directly with your attorney, not get lost in a shuffle. We know that an accident can throw your life into turmoil – mounting medical bills, missed work, pain, and uncertainty. Our role is not only to handle the legal battle but also to guide you through the recovery process. We help coordinate medical care, deal with insurance paperwork, and provide updates at every stage. Our Waymo accident attorney Burbank team is literally right here in the area, ready to meet with you and even visit the accident scene if needed. And if you’re elsewhere in L.A. County, we’re just a phone call away and can come to you if your injuries limit travel.

In essence, having the right attorney means you can focus on healing while we focus on winning your case. We take pride in helping accident victims take on powerful entities like Waymo and obtain justice. These new autonomous vehicle cases can shape the future of road safety, and we are passionate about holding companies accountable to keep our community safe.

Real Case Outcomes and What They Mean for You

It may help to look at how some autonomous vehicle claims have played out, as they shed light on what you can expect:

In the Cyclist vs. Waymo case in San Francisco mentioned earlier, the injured bicyclist’s lawsuit against Waymo is ongoing as of 2025. The fact that it was filed in federal court indicates the seriousness of her claims (significant damages) and Waymo’s potential exposure. That case may establish important precedents on how much responsibility a company has for the behavior of its passengers and its vehicle’s stopping locations. A win or settlement for the cyclist would reinforce that yes, companies like Waymo will pay for injuries caused by their service’s mishaps. For you as a victim, it shows that these companies can and should be pursued when you’re hurt – and that they do settle cases when liable.
In the Uber Tempe fatality case (2018), Uber quickly reached a confidential settlement with the victim’s family [37]. While not in California, it demonstrated that AV companies often prefer to settle meritorious claims rather than face a public trial, especially in a death case. The backup driver in that case was prosecuted, but Uber as a company avoided a drawn-out civil trial. For an injured person in L.A., this suggests that if your case is strong (clear fault on the AV and significant damages), Waymo might eventually opt to settle fairly to avoid bad publicity.
In October 2023, the Cruise robotaxi accident in San Francisco (pedestrian dragged) led to a reported settlement by May 2024 [38][14]. Cruise took responsibility by recalling its fleet and addressing software issues, and then settled the victim’s injury claims. This again shows that when faced with clear evidence of a technology failure, AV companies often choose a settlement and corrective actions over fighting in court. Each settlement, though usually confidential, likely involves substantial compensation for the injured party’s medical care, rehab, and suffering. It reflects what we would strive for in your case – a resolution that truly covers your losses and holds the company accountable.
Not all cases are straightforward; in one California lawsuit involving a Tesla on Autopilot that caused a crash, the case was complicated by international factors and got dismissed to be re-filed in another country [39]. The lesson there is that jurisdiction and venue can matter. With Waymo accidents in Burbank/LA, jurisdiction will be local (since Waymo operates here and you’re here), so you won’t face that issue. But it shows why you want lawyers who know how to keep the case in the most favorable court.

In reviewing these outcomes, the key takeaway is that autonomous vehicle accident claims are winnable – but they require expertise, persistence, and often, aggressive litigation strategy. Companies like Waymo do not automatically hand over large checks; they will investigate and sometimes contest liability. Yet, with a strong legal team, you can force their hand toward a fair settlement or prevail at trial if necessary. Our firm’s experience with serious accident cases and our willingness to go to court if needed are critical assets for our clients.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation – We’re Here to Help

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Waymo car accident (or any autonomous vehicle accident) in Burbank, Los Angeles, or anywhere in California, don’t navigate this complex situation alone. The legal landscape around self-driving cars is new, but your right to recover damages for negligence is well-established. At Djougourian Law Corp, we combine cutting-edge legal knowledge with old-fashioned dedication to our clients’ well-being.

When you contact us, we will:

Listen to the details of your accident and injuries with care and compassion.
Explain your legal options clearly, including who might be liable and what compensation you can pursue.
Outline a plan for investigating and pursuing your claim, so you know what to expect.
Charge nothing upfront – your initial consultation is free, and if we take your case, we work on a contingency fee (meaning we only get paid if we win compensation for you).

Time is of the essence after an accident with a Waymo or other autonomous vehicle. Evidence can disappear, and the two-year lawsuit clock starts ticking. So please, reach out as soon as you’re able. Let our Waymo accident attorney Burbank team and our Los Angeles autonomous vehicle accident experts go to work for you. We are passionate about holding negligent parties accountable – whether human or high-tech.

Call us at 818-530-0000 or visit our website to schedule your free case evaluation. We’ll fight to get you the justice and compensation you deserve, while you focus on healing and moving forward.

Roads and technology may change, but one thing remains constant: if you’re wrongfully injured, you have the right to be made whole. We’re here to make sure that right is upheld in the era of self-driving cars.

Stay safe, and know that if the unexpected happens, we’ve got your back on the journey to recovery.

[1] [11] [33] [34] How Many Car Accidents Happen Per Day in Los Angeles?

https://www.mkplawgroup.com/uncategorized/how-man-car-accidents-daily-los-angeles

[2] Burbank 2022 | Office of Traffic Safety

https://www.ots.ca.gov/rankings/burbank-2022

[3] [31] Waymo self-driving taxi: What it’s like to ride in an autonomous vehicle

https://www.axios.com/2025/04/09/self-driving-car-waymo-taxi-test

[4] [5] [8] [9] [17] Waymo taxis are coming to Los Angeles and Bay Area freeways – Los Angeles Times

https://www.latimes.com/business/story/2025-11-12/waymo-taxis-are-coming-to-los-angeles-bay-area-freeways

[6] [7] Waymo One is now open to all in Los Angeles

https://waymo.com/blog/2024/11/waymo-one-open-to-all-in-los-angeles

[10] [18] [19] [20] [21] [27] [28] [37] [39] Cruiseing for Waymo Lawsuits: Liability in Autonomous Vehicle Crashes – Richmond Journal of Law and Technology

https://jolt.richmond.edu/2023/11/23/cruiseing-for-waymo-lawsuits/

[12] Top Auto Accident Attorney in Burbank for Your Recovery

https://djlawcorp.com/services/auto-accident-attorney-in-burbank/

[13] [14] [15] [38] Cruise reaches settlement with woman severely injured by company’s robotaxi in San Francisco in October 2023 – ABC7 San Francisco

https://abc7news.com/post/cruise-reaches-settlement-with-woman-severely-injured-by-companys-robotaxi-in-san-francisco-october-2023/14845163

[16] Cyclist sues Waymo | Courthouse News Service

https://www.courthousenews.com/cyclist-sues-waymo/

[22] Waymo sues California DMV to keep driverless crash data under wraps | The Verge

https://www.theverge.com/2022/1/28/22906513/waymo-lawsuit-california-dmv-crash-data-foia

[23] New California law aims to hold driverless car companies accountable for traffic violations – CBS San Francisco

https://www.cbsnews.com/sanfrancisco/news/new-california-law-aims-driverless-car-companies-traffic-violations

[24] [25] [26] California’s New Law Brings Accountability to Driverless Vehicles – Cannella | Snyder