[gwoplock]

> Even when you cause an accident, you don't pay. Your insurance company does. You might "pay" with increased future insurance rates.

The way I understand auto insurance is, you're always liable for the damage caused, assuming you're at fault. You have a contract with the insurance carrier to transfer the liability from you to the insurance company for a specific damage amount and causes.

> So what exactly does it mean that Mercedes "assumes liability"?

You have a contract to transfer liability in when the system is active, similar to the contract you have with your insurance.

> Are they going to reimburse insurance company?

That is possible, it is also possible Mercedes will pay first.

>We all have (or supposed to have) mandatory insurance. We're already paying so what practical difference does it make to the owner of that car?

Potentially lower insurance costs.