🔗 Share this article American Authorities Launch Inquiry into Self-Driving Tesla Vehicles After Series of Crashes American vehicle safety authorities have commenced an investigation into Tesla cars featuring the full self-driving technology due to traffic-safety violations after multiple accidents. Regulatory Body Finds Traffic Law Violations The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced that the automaker's self-driving assistance system, which requires motorists to remain attentive and take control when necessary, had “induced vehicle behaviour that violated road safety regulations”. This initial assessment by the NHTSA represents the initial phase before possibly seeking a recall of the cars if the authority concludes they present a danger to public safety. Concerning Case Findings The regulatory body reported it had received accounts of 2.88 million Tesla vehicles running red lights and traveling against the incorrect way during lane switching while operating the system. NHTSA stated it has six reports in which a Tesla vehicle, using FSD engaged, “came to an intersection with a red light, continued to drive into the crossroads despite the red light and was subsequently involved in a collision with other motor vehicles in the junction”. The agency noted that four accidents had resulted in injuries to occupants. Further Safety Concerns The NHTSA stated it has found 18 reports and one media report claiming that Tesla cars, driving through an intersection with FSD active, did not stay stationary for the duration of a red light, failed to stop fully, or failed to accurately detect and display the proper light status in the vehicle interface”. Some complainants also claimed that FSD “failed to give alerts of the technology's planned actions as the car was coming to a red traffic signal”. Continuing Regulatory Scrutiny The full self-driving system, which is more advanced than its basic autopilot feature, has been under investigation by NHTSA for twelve months. In late 2024, the agency started an investigation into over two million Tesla cars using FSD after four reported collisions in situations of poor visibility, such as sun glare, mist or dust clouds. One such accident, in 2023, was deadly. Manufacturer's Stated Position Tesla's website states that FSD is “designed for use with a completely alert driver, who has their hands on the wheel and is prepared to take over at any moment. While these features are designed to become more capable, the presently active functions do not render the vehicle autonomous.” Self-driving vehicle technology continue to face growing examination from safety agencies as the technology advances and practical implementation reveals possible issues with existing deployments.