đ Share this article US Regulators Begin Probe into Self-Driving Teslas After Series of Crashes US automobile safety regulators have opened an investigation into Tesla vehicles featuring the full self-driving technology due to traffic-safety violations following numerous accidents. Regulatory Body Finds Traffic Law Violations The federal safety agency declared that the automaker's autonomous driving feature, which requires drivers to stay alert and take control when necessary, had caused vehicle behaviour that violated road safety regulationsâ. This early investigation by the NHTSA marks the initial phase before possibly seeking a recall of the vehicles if the authority concludes they pose a risk to road safety. Alarming Case Findings The regulatory body stated it had received accounts of 2.88 million Tesla vehicles driving through red lights and moving in the incorrect direction during lane changes while operating the technology. NHTSA confirmed it has six documented cases in which a Tesla car, operating with full self-driving activated, âcame to an junction with a red traffic signal, continued to travel into the crossroads despite the red light and was later part of a collision with other motor vehicles in the junctionâ. The authority reported that four accidents had caused injuries to occupants. Further Issues Identified The NHTSA announced it has identified 18 complaints and one media report claiming that Tesla cars, driving through an junction with FSD engaged, did not stay stopped for the duration of a red traffic signal, failed to stop fully, or did not properly recognize and display the correct light status in the car's displayâ. Several reporters also claimed that FSD âfailed to give warnings of the technology's intended actions as the vehicle was approaching a red lightâ. Ongoing Regulatory Scrutiny Tesla's FSD, which is more advanced than its basic autopilot feature, has been being examined by NHTSA for a year. In late 2024, the agency began an investigation into over two million Tesla cars using FSD after four documented crashes in conditions of poor visibility, such as bright sunlight, mist or airborne dust. One such accident, in 2023, was fatal. Manufacturer's Stated Position The company's official position indicates that FSD is âdesigned for use with a completely alert motorist, who has their hands on the wheel and is ready to take over at any time. While these capabilities are designed to become more capable, the presently active features do not make the vehicle autonomous.â Self-driving vehicle technology continue to face increased scrutiny from safety agencies as the technology advances and practical implementation reveals potential challenges with current implementations.