đ Share this article US Regulators Launch Inquiry into Self-Driving Tesla Vehicles After Series of Accidents US automobile safety regulators have commenced an examination into Tesla vehicles featuring the full self-driving technology due to traffic-safety violations following multiple accidents. Regulatory Body Identifies Safety Regulation Violations The federal safety agency declared that the electric carmaker's autonomous driving feature, which demands motorists to stay alert and intervene if needed, had caused car behavior that breached traffic safety lawsâ. This early investigation by the NHTSA marks the initial phase before potentially seeking a withdrawal of the vehicles if the agency determines they present a danger to public safety. Alarming Incident Reports The regulatory body stated it had documented reports of 2.88 million Tesla cars running red traffic lights and traveling against the incorrect direction during lane changes while operating the technology. NHTSA stated it has six reports in which a Tesla vehicle, operating with full self-driving activated, âapproached an intersection with a red traffic signal, proceeded to drive into the intersection despite the red signal and was subsequently part of a collision with other motor vehicles in the junctionâ. The authority noted that four crashes had resulted in one or more injuries. Additional Issues Identified The NHTSA stated it has identified 18 reports and one news account alleging that Tesla vehicles, operating at an intersection with FSD active, did not stay stationary for the entire time of a red traffic signal, did not come to complete stop, or did not properly recognize and show the correct light status in the vehicle interfaceâ. Some complainants also claimed that FSD âdid not provide warnings of the technology's planned behaviour as the car was approaching a red lightâ. Continuing Regulatory Scrutiny The full self-driving system, which is more sophisticated than its Autopilot system, has been being examined by NHTSA for twelve months. In late 2024, the authority began an investigation into 2.4 million Tesla cars using FSD after four documented crashes in situations of poor visibility, such as sun glare, fog or airborne dust. One of these collisions, in last year, was fatal. Manufacturer's Stated Position The company's official position indicates that FSD is âintended for use with a completely alert driver, who has their hands on the wheel and is prepared to take over at any time. While these capabilities are designed to improve over time, the presently active features do not make the vehicle self-driving.â Self-driving vehicle technology continue to face increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies as the technology advances and real-world testing reveals potential challenges with current implementations.