In a landscape dominated by technological advancements, the intersection of innovation and safety becomes increasingly critical. The recent developments in the automotive industry, exemplified by Tesla’s recent recalls, raise pertinent questions about manufacturers’ responsibility to ensure their consumers’ well-being.
As highlighted in a December 2023 article by The New York Times, the Tesla Autopilot recall is a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with cutting-edge technologies. According to the article, “Federal auto safety regulators have been investigating Tesla’s autopilot system since 2021 after a series of accidents involving the technology”.
2021 Investigation of Tesla’s Autopilot Feature
In 2021, the United States government began its formal investigation into Tesla’s driver assistance system, commonly referred to as ‘autopilot’ after vehicles using the technology collided with parked emergency vehicles.
A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigation covering 765,000 vehicles, looked at potential safety concerns related to the “autopilot” system. Seventeen individuals were injured and one was killed in the crashes covered by that investigation. The investigation included almost every model sold by Tesla since the 2014 model year.
As reported by The Guardian, the agency said, “Most incidents took place after dark and the crash scenes encountered included scene control measures such as first responder vehicle lights, flares, an illuminated arrow board, and road cones,” the agency said.
Following its own investigation, The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommended that Tesla limit using the Autopilot feature to areas where it can operate safely. The agency also advised the NHTSA to require Tesla to have better systems in place to ensure drivers are paying attention when the driver assistance feature is turned on.
120,000 Tesla Vehicles Recalled In 2023
Last year, Tesla recalled over 120,000 Model S and Model X vehicles in the United States due to the risk of their doors opening during an accident. In their filing with the NHTSA, Tesla said it had witnessed a cabin door unlatch after a routine crash test, which revealed that the vehicle was operating without lockout functionality. Tesla had mistakenly left the feature out but sought to remedy the situation by offering an over-the-air software update for model years 2021 to 2023. As reported by Reuters, the NHTSA said that the update did not comply with federal safety standards for side-impact protection.
2024 Tesla Recall
The latest recall, involving more than two million vehicles, involves incorrect font size appearing on warning lights. As reported by USA Today, the NHTSA said “Warning lights with a smaller font size can make critical safety information on the instrument panel difficult to read, increasing the risk of a crash.”
Model years affected by this recall include Model S, Model X, Model Y, Model 3, and Cybertruck. The NHTSA stated that there is a discrepancy concerning the font size displayed on the instrument panel for warning lights related to the Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS).
To resolve this issue, Tesla is offering free over-the-air software updates. According to the recall notice, affected Tesla owners will also receive a mailed notification by March 30th, 2024. Vehicle owners may also call Tesla customer service at 1-877-798-3752 and reference recall number SB-24-00-003.
Vehicle Manufacturers’ Responsibility To Consumers
The responsibility of vehicle manufacturers to consumers stands as a cornerstone in ensuring the safety and well-being of those on the roads. As drivers place their trust in the reliability of automotive technologies, manufacturers bear a profound obligation to design, produce, and market vehicles that meet stringent safety standards. From airbags and braking systems to advanced driver-assistance features, each component holds the potential to either safeguard or jeopardize lives. Understanding this dynamic landscape becomes paramount for individuals seeking recourse in the aftermath of accidents involving defective or unsafe vehicles.
Call An Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve been injured because of the adverse effects from a Tesla vehicle or a defective product from another manufacturer, it is crucial to consult with a seasoned attorney as soon as possible. With over three decades of dedicated experience, our team has a proven track record of working closely with clients to ensure they receive the justice, recovery, and compensation they rightfully deserve. Schedule a complimentary consultation of your case by calling Panter, Panter, & Sampedro today at (305) 662-6178.
Sources:
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/12/13/business/tesla-autopilot-recall.html
https://panterlaw.com/2022/01/14/tesla-replacing-faulty-autopilot-cameras/
