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What to do if you're in a crash with a self-driving car: VERIFY

A self-driving taxi company called Cruise was testing out its fleet of vehicles here in the Queen City. But what happens if you get in an accident in their car?

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Cruise, a San Francisco-based company known for its self-driving taxis, began testing its fleet in Charlotte a few weeks ago. The news was met with skepticism and confusion as drivers in the Queen City noticed some unusual (and in some cases, dangerous driving. 

But what happens if you get into a crash involving a driverless car? 

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OUR SOURCES

WHAT WE FOUND 

On the Cruise website, the company breaks down what you should do if the driverless taxi you are riding in is involved in a collision. 

Cruise says if it detects a crash, it can communicate with the rider through the car's phone system. Cruise will use the car's cameras to evaluate what is happening around the vehicle.

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If you’re a rider, stay buckled and wait in the car if you can. Passengers can get out of the car on a nearby sidewalk if necessary. Then, a Cruise support specialist will contact the person and get them help immediately. 

The Insurance Information Institute says Cruise can gather information about the collision through the car’s system of sensors and cameras.

RELATED: Taxi company known for self-driving cars gathering data in Charlotte

According to Cruise, the company will assess the damage and handle the insurance aspects through its own insurance carrier.

But what if you’re driving in your own vehicle and you get into a collision with a cruise driverless taxi? The Insurance Information Institute says you should contact your insurance company right away to help you assess the damage, take photos and provide your statement. Fault will then be determined from the assessments, photos, and statements.

In the end, claims will be paid out just like any other car accident.

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WCNC Charlotte's Verify series is all about trying to make a difference in the Carolinas by making sure the community has the correct information. WCNC Charlotte outlines concisely what we know and what we don't know. Sometimes the answer can be surprising. Watch previous stories where we verify social media claims in the YouTube playlist below and subscribe to get updated when new videos are uploaded. 

 VERIFY is dedicated to helping the public distinguish between true and false information. The VERIFY team, with help from questions submitted by the audience, tracks the spread of stories or claims that need clarification or correction. Have something you want VERIFIED? Text us at 704-329-3600 or visit VERIFY. 

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