US automobile safety regulators are investigating 2.88 million Tesla vehicles with full self-driving (FSD) technology due to several crashes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) claims the system has caused traffic safety violations.
Safety Violations in Investigated Crashes
The NHTSA reported that the FSD assistance system resulted in dangerous behaviors, including driving through red lights and incorrect lane changes. Preliminary evaluations may lead to recalls if safety risks are confirmed.
According to the agency, there are six reports of Teslas encountering red lights, continuing through intersections, and crashing into other vehicles. Four of these incidents resulted in injuries.
Details of the Investigation and Previous Reports
The NHTSA has received 18 complaints that FSD did not stop correctly at red lights or failed to display traffic signal statuses accurately. Some drivers reported a lack of warnings when approaching red signals.
The agency has been investigating Tesla’s FSD for a year, including a prior inquiry involving 2.4 million vehicles linked to four accidents under poor visibility conditions, one of which was fatal.
Driver Responsibilities and Future Steps
Tesla’s website states that FSD is meant for use by fully attentive drivers prepared to take control at any moment. While advanced, the system does not make vehicles autonomous.
Further evaluations by the NHTSA may result in mandated changes or recalls based on safety assessments.
