.png){kind=logo}
In 2019, Florida saw a lethal car accident, marking the first time Tesla was sued for misleading marketing of their features like “Autopilot.” Victims demanded $345 million for the damages caused. They said Tesla’s Autopilot technology had major flaws that contributed to this disaster.
“Autopilot” is an advanced driver-assistance system. It doesn’t make the vehicle fully autonomous, but depending on the situation, it requires some intervention by the driver. Maintaining speed, ensuring a safe distance from other vehicles, sticking to the lane, and making lane changes are some of Tesla’s notable features.
George McGee was reportedly driving Tesla’s S Electric Sedan in Key Largo, Florida. He informed them that the car was in “Enhanced Autopilot” mode, and out of nowhere, accelerated the speed to 100 kmph and collided with a Chevrolet Tahoe beside which Benavides Leon and Angulo Leon, a young couple, were standing.
In this high-speed collision, Benavides died due to the many injuries he sustained, and Angulo suffered from fractured bones and brain injury. This resulted in a trial being held in the Southern District of Florida on July 14. Angulo sought compensation for the medical expenditures and mental suffering.
Also Read: India's Tesla Rival: Will Tata Motors’ ₹25 Lakh Electric Car Disrupt Musk’s Big Move?
Tesla clarified their stance by saying that their Autopilot system was marketed as “partially” automatic.
But litigants claimed that Tesla has misrepresented its safety features and overstated the capabilities of the “autopilot mode.” And this lethal car crash is a result of this deception.
In response to the allegations made by George McGee, Tesla responded that it never marketed its Autopilot driving mode as fully autonomous and that the driver’s interference is still needed in various situations, and that McGee is solely responsible for the tragic accident.
The company further added that car owners are clearly informed about the proper use of “Autopilot” and other important safety features. Benavides' family also filed charges against George McGee for careless driving and received compensation for the loss and damage.
Also Read: Tesla's India Foray: Electric Cars, Hirings & Growth Post Musk-Modi Meet
Tesla is on trial for Florida’s fatal car crash that took place in 2019. The plaintiffs have sought $345 million for the losses, which includes a compensation amount of $109 million and a penalty of $236 million. The verdict on this lawsuit will be passed soon.
