US Regulators Launch Investigation into Autonomous Tesla Vehicles Following Series of Accidents

US automobile safety regulators have started an probe into Tesla cars featuring the autonomous driving system due to safety regulation breaches after multiple crashes.

Regulatory Body Finds Traffic Law Breaches

The NHTSA announced that the automaker's autonomous driving feature, which demands motorists to stay alert and take control when necessary, had caused car behavior that violated traffic safety laws”.

This early investigation by the NHTSA represents the initial phase before potentially seeking a withdrawal of the vehicles if the authority determines they present a danger to public safety.

Concerning Case Findings

The agency reported it had received accounts of 2.88 million Tesla vehicles running red lights and moving against the incorrect direction during lane changes while using the system.

NHTSA confirmed it has six reports in which a Tesla vehicle, using FSD engaged, “approached an intersection with a red light, proceeded to travel into the intersection despite the red light and was later involved in a crash with other motor vehicles in the junction”.

The authority reported that four crashes had resulted in injuries to occupants.

Further Safety Concerns

The NHTSA stated it has identified 18 complaints and one media report alleging that Tesla vehicles, driving through an intersection with FSD active, “failed to remain stationary for the duration of a red light, did not come to complete stop, or did not properly recognize and display the correct traffic signal state in the vehicle interface”.

Several reporters also stated that FSD “did not provide warnings of the technology's planned behaviour as the vehicle was coming to a red traffic signal”.

Continuing Official Examination

The full self-driving system, which is more advanced than its basic autopilot feature, has been being examined by NHTSA for a year.

In late 2024, the agency started an inquiry into 2.4 million Tesla cars equipped with FSD after four documented crashes in situations of poor visibility, such as bright sunlight, fog or dust clouds. One such accident, in last year, was fatal.

Company's Official Stance

Tesla's website states that FSD is “designed for use with a completely alert driver, who has their hands on the steering wheel and is ready to take over at any time. While these capabilities are designed to improve over time, the presently active functions do not render the vehicle self-driving.”

Self-driving car systems continue to face increased scrutiny from safety agencies as the technology advances and practical implementation reveals possible issues with current implementations.