🔗 Share this article

US automobile safety regulators have started an investigation into Tesla vehicles featuring the full self-driving technology due to traffic-safety violations after numerous accidents.

Regulatory Body Identifies Safety Regulation Breaches

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration declared that the automaker's autonomous driving feature, which requires motorists to stay alert and take control when necessary, had “induced vehicle behaviour that breached traffic safety laws”.

This early investigation by the NHTSA represents the first step before possibly seeking a withdrawal of the cars if the agency determines they pose a risk to road safety.

Alarming Case Findings

The agency reported it had documented reports of 2.88 million Tesla vehicles driving through red lights and traveling in the incorrect direction during lane changes while using the technology.

NHTSA stated it has six documented cases in which a Tesla car, using full self-driving engaged, “came to an junction with a red light, proceeded to drive into the intersection despite the red light and was later involved in a collision with other cars in the intersection”.

The authority reported that four accidents had resulted in one or more injuries.

Further Safety Concerns

The NHTSA stated it has found 18 reports and one media report claiming that Tesla cars, driving through an junction with FSD engaged, “failed to remain stationary for the entire time of a red light, did not come to complete stop, or did not properly recognize and show the correct traffic signal state in the vehicle interface”.

Several reporters also stated that FSD “failed to give alerts of the system's planned actions as the car was approaching a red light”.

Ongoing Official Examination

The full self-driving system, which is more sophisticated than its basic autopilot feature, has been under investigation by NHTSA for twelve months.

In October 2024, the authority began an inquiry into over two million Tesla cars equipped with FSD after four reported collisions in conditions of poor visibility, such as sun glare, mist or airborne dust. One such accident, in 2023, was deadly.

Manufacturer's Stated Position

The company's official position indicates that FSD is “designed for use with a fully attentive driver, who has their hands on the wheel and is ready to assume control at any time. While these capabilities are designed to become more capable, the presently active functions do not make the vehicle self-driving.”

Automated vehicle technology continue to face increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies as the technology advances and practical implementation reveals possible issues with current implementations.