NHTSA Launches Investigation Into Tesla's Self-Driving Software Following Traffic Violations
NHTSA Initiates Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a probe following several incidents where Tesla's self-driving software caused violations of traffic laws. Numerous complaints have been documented concerning the company's Full Self-Driving technology.
Identifying Traffic Violations
The NHTSA reported 18 complaints and one media report highlighting Tesla vehicles ignoring red light signals and changing lanes dangerously.
- Failure to stop fully at red lights
- Issues detecting traffic signals correctly
- Six crash reports, four leading to injuries
Alarming Behavior of the Software
The investigation also noted instances where vehicles entered opposing lanes, crossed double-yellow lines, or made incorrect turns. The following issues were reported:
- Traveling straight in a turn lane
- Mistakenly turning from a through lane
Regulatory Evaluation
The NHTSA's investigation will assess whether Tesla provided adequate warnings about potential risks, allowing drivers enough time to respond to unexpected behaviors of the software.
Autonomous Driving Ambitions
While Tesla describes its Full Self-Driving mode as partially autonomous, requiring active driver supervision, CEO Elon Musk's ambitious goals for fully autonomous vehicles remain unfulfilled.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.