I agree. Also, I would consider the automated car to be recklessly driving if it finds itself in that situation as it should not drive faster than its sensors c

I agree. Also, I would consider the automated car to be recklessly driving if it finds itself in that situation as it should not drive faster than its sensors can see a clear path for. It would be better if the car braked hard, and aligned the car to squarely hit the obstruction so you don't have an offset collision. This would also be better for the pedestrian hit as the middle of a cars hood is softer than the edges and better for the car and its occupants as crash protection will be more effective.