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Will Self-Driving Cars Reduce the Number of Auto Accidents?

Robert Stahle • December 7, 2016
Self-Driving Cars

Will Self-Driving Vehicles Mean Fewer Car Accidents?

With the movement toward self-driving cars, one of the key points for those who want to see them on the streets is that they will reduce the number of car accident claims. But is that really the case? Will these self-driving cars mean safer roadways and fewer accidents? It is entirely possible, given the technology that is being used and how it is being implemented, that these cars could make things safer for everyone. That is not to say that self-driving cars are free from errors, though, because there have been accidents involving them.

The cars have occasionally had problems with understanding their spatial relationship to other objects. In other words, they have failed to realize that another vehicle was in their path, and have not yielded right of way. This has happened with cars that were totally self-driving, and also with cars that offered an auto-pilot option for drivers. While this technology is far from perfect, the number of accidents that have taken place has also been surprisingly small for the number of these types of cars that have been tested and the number of miles the vehicles have logged.

For those who are concerned about a car accident or other type of personal injury involving a vehicle, the self-driving option may be a good choice. It can also make things much easier for people who have some trouble driving, or who need to get around but may not be in the best state to do so. For example, a self-driving car would be able to take someone home if they had too much to drink, or if they somehow were injured and not able to operate the gas pedal and brakes effectively, or steer with a damaged arm.

There are many options for ways that self-driving cars could be used, and the majority of those ways point to a significant reduction in the number of auto accidents that are seen on US roadways. However, there are also some concerns. The largest of these worries is based around the issue of who will be at fault in an accident. If no one is driving, how does insurance handle the collision? That question is one that has yet to be answered, and that will not likely have any easy answers. Only time will tell when it comes to how these issues can be addressed.

Anyone who has been involved in a car accident, whether with a self-driving car or an owner-operated vehicle, may need the services of an attorney who is comfortable with vehicle cases involving personal injury. By having the right attorney on your side, you can be provided with the opportunity for appropriate compensation. That can make a significant difference in your satisfaction with the outcome of your case. There are no guarantees, of course, and the hiring of an attorney for a car accident case is a serious decision that should not be taken lightly. This decision will likely become even more important as self-driving cars - and the potential for accidents involving them - become more common.

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Injured in a Car Accident in Nebraska or Iowa?

By Robert Stahle • October 22, 2025
A car accident can change your life in a matter of seconds. One moment you’re commuting or running errands, and the next, you’re facing a wrecked vehicle, physical pain, and a growing stack of medical bills. It’s stressful, overwhelming, and often confusing—especially when you’re not sure what to do next. At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we help car accident victims in South Sioux City , Sioux City , and across Nebraska and Iowa understand their rights and recover the compensation they deserve. In this post, we’ll walk you through the critical steps to take after a crash—and how to protect your health, finances, and legal claim. Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Health Immediately after a crash, your safety comes first. If possible: Move your vehicle out of traffic Check yourself and others for injuries Call 911 for medical help and law enforcement Even if you don’t feel seriously hurt, get evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Many injuries—like whiplash, concussions, or internal trauma—don’t show symptoms right away. A prompt medical exam not only protects your health, it also documents your injuries for your insurance claim. Step 2: Call the Police and File an Accident Report In both Nebraska and Iowa , it’s important to report any crash involving: Injury or death Property damage over $1,000 A hit-and-run or uninsured driver The responding officer will create a police report , which includes key facts like: Date, time, and location of the accident Statements from drivers and witnesses Diagrams or photos of the scene Initial assessment of fault This report becomes vital evidence in your personal injury claim. Be honest and factual—but avoid admitting fault or guessing what happened. Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene (If You Can) If you are physically able and it’s safe to do so, collect the following: Photos of vehicle damage, injuries, skid marks, and surroundings Driver’s license, insurance, and contact info of all involved Contact info for witnesses Notes about the weather, road conditions, and what you recall If you’re unable to collect this yourself, Fitch & Stahle Law Firm may be able to retrieve surveillance footage, witness statements, or crash data later—but the more you gather early, the better. Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company Most policies require you to notify your insurer after a crash. However, you do not need to give a recorded statement , especially before speaking to a lawyer. Stick to the basics: Where and when the crash happened Who was involved That you’re seeking medical treatment Avoid discussing fault, injuries, or potential settlement values. Insurance companies often use early statements to downplay your claim later. Step 5: Call a Car Accident Lawyer—Before You Talk to the Other Driver’s Insurance The at-fault driver’s insurance company may reach out soon after the crash. They might offer a quick settlement or ask for a recorded interview. Don’t be fooled— their goal is to protect their bottom line, not your recovery . When you call Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we: Handle all communication with insurance companies Protect you from saying something that hurts your case Calculate the real value of your damages Make sure you aren’t pressured into a lowball settlement We offer free consultations and don’t charge legal fees unless we win your case. Step 6: Keep Track of Everything Start a folder or digital log for your car accident claim. Include: Medical bills and records Receipts for prescriptions or medical equipment Notes from doctor visits Pay stubs showing missed work A journal of your pain levels, emotional struggles, or daily challenges This documentation helps prove pain and suffering , lost income , and the long-term impact of your injury. What Compensation Can You Recover? Depending on the circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation for: Emergency room care and medical treatment Physical therapy and future healthcare needs Vehicle repairs or total loss Lost wages or reduced earning capacity Pain and suffering Emotional distress Permanent disability or disfigurement If the at-fault driver was reckless—such as driving drunk or texting behind the wheel—you may also qualify for punitive damages . At Fitch & Stahle , we fight for the maximum compensation available under Nebraska or Iowa law. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim? The legal deadline to file a car accident lawsuit (called the statute of limitations ) is: 4 years in Nebraska 2 years in Iowa However, it’s best to act early. Delays in filing can lead to lost evidence, unclear medical records, and a weaker case overall. Why Choose Fitch & Stahle Law Firm? We’ve spent years helping injured drivers in the Siouxland region get justice after devastating car accidents. Here’s why clients trust us: ✅ Local Experience : Based in South Sioux City , we know the roads, courts, and insurers in both Nebraska and Iowa. ✅ Full-Service Representation : From crash investigation to courtroom litigation, we handle every step. ✅ Licensed in NE & IA : Whether your accident happened on I-29, Highway 77, or in town, we’ve got you covered. ✅ No Upfront Fees : You pay nothing unless we win your case. Don’t Go Through This Alone—We’re Here to Help If you were injured in a car accident in South Sioux City , Sioux City , or anywhere in Northeast Nebraska or Northwest Iowa , don’t wait to protect your rights. The sooner you act, the stronger your claim. 📞 Call us now at 402-494-3012 🌐 Schedule your free consultation at fitch-stahlelaw.com 📍 Visit us at our South Sioux City office At Fitch & Stahle Law Firm , we fight for car accident victims every day—and we’re ready to fight for you.