Tesla Autopilot Cleared of Fault in Fatal Crash, Sets Precedent with Jury Verdict
In a landmark ruling, Tesla has emerged victorious in a legal battle where a jury cleared its Autopilot technology of any responsibility in a fatal crash that occurred four years ago. The verdict is significant as it sets a precedent and vindicates Tesla’s driver-assistance system, which plays a crucial role in distinguishing the electric-car company from its competitors.
The trial took place in Riverside, California, where jurors sided with Tesla, marking the first lawsuit attributing a fatality to Autopilot to go to trial. The two surviving passengers, who sustained serious injuries, had sought $400 million in damages for physical injuries, mental anguish, and the loss of the driver’s life.
Despite Tesla’s claims that its semi-autonomous driving technology makes their cars the safest on the road, the Autopilot system has been mired in controversy. Federal probes are currently underway to determine whether Autopilot defects played a role in at least 17 deaths since June 2021. In addition, regulatory investigations and lawsuits have been filed, alleging that Tesla exaggerated its progress towards achieving hands-free driving. Several lawsuits involving fatal crashes are slated to go to trial in the coming months in California and Florida.
The recent verdict comes at a time when Tesla’s shares have experienced a significant decline, losing nearly one-fifth of their value in less than two weeks. These losses are attributed to concerns over weakening demand for electric cars.
During the month-long trial in Riverside, the focus was on Micah Lee, the driver of the Model 3 involved in the 2019 crash. Lee’s vehicle veered off a freeway in Southern California, collided with a tree, and subsequently caught fire. Lawyers representing the crash survivors argued that a manufacturing defect in the Autopilot mode caused the car to swerve off the road. However, Tesla contended that Lee had consumed alcohol prior to getting behind the wheel and presented no evidence to suggest that Autopilot had been activated before the collision.
After four days of deliberation, a nine-member jury reached their verdict.
At the time of reporting, company representatives and lawyers for both Tesla and the plaintiffs had not issued any immediate comments regarding the outcome of the case.
The case, Molander v. Tesla Inc., was heard in the California Superior Court of Riverside County.
In summary, Tesla has emerged successful in a high-stakes legal battle, as a jury cleared its Autopilot technology of any responsibility for a fatal crash. This verdict carries significant weight, setting a precedent for future cases involving Autopilot. However, Tesla continues to face federal probes, regulatory investigations, and additional lawsuits related to Autopilot defects and allegations of exaggerated claims about hands-free driving capabilities. This outcome is seen against the backdrop of a decline in Tesla’s shares, raising concerns about the demand for electric cars.
