NHTSA investigating Tesla’s self-driving software for traffic violations
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into Tesla’s self-driving software following several incidents in which the system caused cars to violate traffic laws.
The Auto Safety Regulatory Authority said Tuesday it had identified several incidents in which the company’s full self-driving software ignored red lights or tried to change lanes into oncoming traffic.
NHTSA cited 18 complaints and one media report in which Tesla vehicles using self-driving software failed to remain stationary or come to a complete stop at a red light or failed to accurately detect a traffic signal. She added that she had also received six reports of accidents, four of which resulted in injuries.
The program also prompted cars to enter opposing lanes, cross double yellow signs or attempt to turn onto roads in the wrong direction, the regulator said, citing 18 complaints, two accident reports and two media reports.
Four accident reports, six complaints, and one media report also stated that the system caused cars to move directly through an intersection while in a turning lane or to turn while in a traffic lane.
The investigation is scheduled to evaluate whether there was any advance warning or sufficient time for drivers to intervene and respond to the vehicle’s unexpected behavior, NHTSA said.
Tesla’s Full Self-Driving mode is partially autonomous, meaning drivers are supposed to remain aware of the steering wheel while using the system.
According to the company’s website, “When enabled, your car will lead you almost anywhere with your active supervision, requiring minimal intervention.”
Tesla CEO Elon Musk has repeatedly set lofty goals for the company’s self-driving capabilities that it has failed to meet. In recent years, it has increasingly turned its attention to robotaxis rather than self-driving software for personal cars. The company began rolling out its automated taxi service in Austin, Texas, during the summer.
