🔗 Share this article American Authorities Begin Inquiry into Self-Driving Tesla Vehicles After String of Crashes US automobile safety regulators have opened an examination into Tesla cars equipped with the full self-driving technology due to traffic-safety violations after multiple collisions. Safety Agency Identifies Safety Regulation Breaches The NHTSA stated that the automaker's self-driving assistance system, which requires motorists to stay alert and take control when necessary, had caused vehicle behaviour that breached road safety regulations”. This early investigation by the NHTSA represents the first step before potentially requesting a recall of the cars if the agency concludes they pose a risk to public safety. Concerning Case Findings The agency stated it had received accounts of nearly 3 million Tesla cars running red lights and moving against the wrong direction during lane changes while using the system. NHTSA stated it has six documented cases in which a Tesla car, operating with full self-driving engaged, “came to an intersection with a red light, proceeded to drive into the crossroads despite the red light and was later involved in a collision with other motor vehicles in the intersection”. The authority reported that four crashes had caused injuries to occupants. Additional Issues Identified The NHTSA announced it has identified 18 reports and one media report alleging that Tesla vehicles, operating at an junction with FSD active, did not stay stationary for the duration of a red traffic signal, failed to stop fully, or did not properly recognize and display the proper light status in the vehicle interface”. Some complainants also stated that FSD “did not provide alerts of the system's planned behaviour as the car was approaching a red traffic signal”. Continuing Regulatory Scrutiny Tesla's FSD, which is more advanced than its basic autopilot feature, has been under investigation by NHTSA for twelve months. In late 2024, the authority began an investigation into over two million Tesla vehicles equipped with FSD after four reported collisions in conditions of reduced visibility, such as bright sunlight, mist or dust clouds. One such accident, in last year, was fatal. Manufacturer's Official Stance Tesla's website states that FSD is “designed for operation by a fully attentive driver, who has their hands on the steering wheel and is prepared to take over at any moment. While these capabilities are designed to improve over time, the currently enabled functions do not render the vehicle self-driving.” Self-driving car systems continue to face increased scrutiny from safety agencies as the systems develop and real-world testing reveals potential challenges with current implementations.