Tesla Autopilot Blamed for Tractor-Trailer Crash, Virginia Sheriff's Office Reports

The Fauquier County Sheriff's Office in Virginia has determined that a Tesla Model Y was operating on Autopilot and speeding before colliding with a tractor-trailer last July, resulting in the death of the Tesla driver. This incident marks the third fatal crash since 2016 involving a Tesla using Autopilot and running underneath a crossing tractor-trailer, raising concerns about the safety of the partially automated system and its appropriate operating conditions. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is currently investigating the crash, as well as conducting a broader probe into Autopilot. The investigation revealed that the Tesla was traveling at 70 mph in a 45 mph zone, and the driver had ample time to brake and avoid the collision. The NTSB has previously called on Tesla to limit where Autopilot can operate and implement better systems to ensure driver attention.