Tortious Liability In Driverless (Autonomous) Vehicles: A Critical Analysis With Special Reference To India
- IJLLR Journal
- May 7
- 1 min read
Rakshit B. Sherekar, Navjeevan Law College, Nashik
ABSTRACT
The rise of autonomous vehicles (AVs) represents a major shift in transportation, with significant implications for legal systems worldwide. Traditional tort law, which is largely premised on human fault and negligence, faces serious challenges when applied to driverless cars that rely on artificial intelligence rather than human control. This paper examines how existing tort doctrines—particularly negligence, strict liability, and product liability—interact with autonomous vehicle technology. It argues that conventional frameworks are insufficient to address the complexities introduced by AI-driven decision-making. Through a doctrinal and comparative analysis, with special emphasis on Indian law, the paper proposes a hybrid liability model that combines strict liability, product liability, and regulatory oversight. The study further highlights the need for legislative reform in India to ensure victim compensation, technological accountability, and legal clarity.
Keywords: Autonomous Vehicles, Tort Law, Strict Liability, Product Liability, Artificial Intelligence, Motor Vehicles Act, India.
