Tesla Driver Reportedly Using Autopilot When He Hit Firetruck

After a government investigation, it was found that the driver of a Tesla that slammed into a firetruck near L.A. last year was using the Autopilot system. After a vehicle in front of him suddenly changed lanes, he didn’t have time to react. Neither the driver nor the 2014 Tesla Model S computer system never saw the firetruck.

Naturally, the findings from the report raise questions about the effectiveness of Tesla’s system. Tesla responded by reminding drivers that the system is not fully autonomous and drivers must be ready to take control of the vehicle.

The driver, although uninjured in the accident, claims he did not have his hands on the steering wheel at the time of the crash. Investigators say he was looking forward with one hand on his knee while touching the bottom of the steering wheel. Cellphone data showed he was not using his phone to talk or text leading up to the crash.