Modern Economics & Management Forum

As a significant achievement in artificial intelligence (AI) development, autonomous vehicles promise substantial convenience and societal transformation. However, their integration into transportation systems introduces legal risks and challenges, particularly regarding the determination and allocation of tort liability for accidents caused by such vehicles. Accelerating commercialization has intensified complex legal issues, with the identification of liable parties emerging as a central concern in legal academia and practice. This paper takes autonomous vehicles as a focal point, analyzing the challenges in attributing tort liability within existing legal frameworks while accounting for the unique technological features of autonomous systems. It proposes a risk-control-centered multi-party liability allocation mechanism. This framework clarifies the responsibilities of manufacturers, users, and regulators, supplemented by insurance systems and technical safeguards, to fully protect the legitimate interests of victims.