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US automobile safety regulators have commenced an investigation into Tesla vehicles featuring the autonomous driving system due to traffic-safety violations following numerous collisions.

Safety Agency Identifies Traffic Law Breaches

The NHTSA announced that the automaker's autonomous driving feature, which demands motorists to remain attentive and intervene if needed, had “induced car behavior that breached road safety regulations”.

This initial assessment by the NHTSA marks the initial phase before possibly seeking a withdrawal of the cars if the authority determines they present a danger to public safety.

Alarming Incident Reports

The agency stated it had received accounts of 2.88 million Tesla cars running red lights and moving in the incorrect way during lane changes while using the system.

NHTSA confirmed it has six documented cases in which a Tesla car, operating with FSD engaged, “came to an junction with a red traffic signal, continued to drive into the crossroads against the red light and was later part of a crash with other motor vehicles in the intersection”.

The authority reported that four accidents had resulted in injuries to occupants.

Additional Issues Identified

The NHTSA announced it has found 18 complaints and one media report claiming that Tesla cars, operating at an intersection with FSD engaged, “failed to remain stationary for the entire time of a red light, did not come to complete stop, or failed to accurately detect and display the correct light status in the vehicle interface”.

Several reporters also stated that FSD “did not provide warnings of the system's intended actions as the vehicle was approaching a red light”.

Continuing Official Examination

The full self-driving system, which is more advanced than its basic autopilot feature, has been under investigation by NHTSA for twelve months.

In late 2024, the agency began an investigation into 2.4 million Tesla vehicles using FSD after four documented crashes in conditions of reduced visibility, such as sun glare, mist or airborne dust. One such accident, in 2023, was fatal.

Manufacturer's Official Stance

The company's official position indicates that FSD is “designed for use with a completely alert motorist, who has their hands on the steering wheel and is ready to take over at any time. While these capabilities are designed to improve over time, the presently active features do not render the car self-driving.”

Automated car systems continue to face growing examination from regulatory bodies as the technology advances and practical implementation reveals potential challenges with existing deployments.