Teslas are supposed to be some of the most advanced vehicles in the world. However, a string of fiery crashes involving the luxury cars that are manufactured in California has some experts questioning their safety.
For example, a man was killed when his 2016 Tesla Model S suddenly veered off South Flamingo Road in Davie, Florida, at around 4:30 p.m. on Feb. 24. According to media reports, the vehicle was being operated in “Autopilot” mode when it swerved over three lanes of the highway, struck a median, hit a patch of trees and immediately caught fire. Once the car’s wreckage was towed to an impound lot, its powerful lithium-ion battery burst into flames three more times. According to Tesla, the massive batteries required to run their electric vehicles can overheat in a crash, ignite and take up to 24 hours to extinguish. In fact, the automaker has issued an emergency response guide for firefighters and other rescuers regarding the issue.
In addition to the battery problem, the Autopilot mode is also coming under fire. It is designed to help owners perform certain driving maneuvers, including steering and braking. However, there have been several accidents involving the mode in recent years. In May 2018, two teenagers were killed when a 2014 Tesla Model S in that mode crashed and burst into flames in Fort Lauderdale. There have also been two similar crashes involving Teslas in California. While the automaker has warned consumers that their vehicles are not fully autonomous, critics say that offering an “Autopilot” mode is needlessly deceiving and encourages drivers to use their vehicles in a dangerous manner.
People who have been harmed by defective autos may wish to have Costa Mesa defective product and machinery legal representation. An attorney could review the case, prepare a claim and push for a fair settlement.
