U.S. Regulators Investigating Tesla ‘Full Self-Driving Mode’ Crash

Federal regulators in the U.S. are investigating the report of a crash involving a Tesla driver who said his vehicle was engaged in “full self-driving” mode at the time of the collision.

The driver, who was beta testing the “full self-driving” software in his sport utility vehicle, says the car veered into the wrong lane while making a left turn. He said no one was hurt, but the SUV was severely damaged when it struck another vehicle. 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched the probe after receiving a complaint from the driver, according to the Associated Press.

“The inquiry is another sign that NHTSA is becoming more aggressive in watching autonomous and partially automated driving systems under President Joe Biden,” the AP reports. “In the past the agency has been reluctant to regulate the systems, saying that it didn’t want to delay potentially life-saving technology.”

NHTSA is also investigating 12 accidents in which Teslas crashed into parked emergency vehicles, to determine how much the vehicles’ Autopilot driver-assist systems were involved. Other accidents in California, Texas and Florida have reportedly been linked to the driver-assist technology and motorists possibly taking their eyes off the road.

“Full self-driving” is billed as more advanced than Autopilot, but Tesla maintains that it still requires a fully attentive driver.

NHTSA is additionally looking into a supposed requirement that “full self-driving” beta testers not disclose information about the software and how it works. That inquiry reflects concerns that such a gag order could make it difficult for regulators to investigate.

Stuck with a Defective Tesla? Know Your Lemon Law Rights

The Tesla investigations highlight the wide range of defects that are often lurking in new and used cars and do not become apparent to owners until long after the vehicles are purchased.

The California lemon law gives car owners in the Golden State the power to hold auto manufacturers accountable. The law requires manufacturers to perform various repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also forces the companies to buy back or replace cars that they cannot or refuse to fix.

There is no set number of repair requests or attempts that must be made before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. An experienced lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights and options and guide you through the process.

Talk with an Orange County Lemon Law Attorney

If you are a California car owner driving a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, an Orange County lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you take action to hold the manufacturer accountable. 

Our lawyers understand the significant stress that can come with haggling with car dealers and manufacturers. We work aggressively to resolve these cases for the people that we represent.

Our offices are conveniently located in San Diego, Los Angeles and San Francisco. Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with an Orange County lemon law attorney.