California Injury Blog
Tesla is recalling nearly all of the vehicles it has sold in the United States because some warning lights on the instrument panel are too small. The Tesla recall includes more than 2.2 million vehicles, such as the S, Y, and the Cybertruck, due to the size of their warning lights.
According to a report in the Daily Mail, Tesla owners may face a double whammy. In addition to the issue with warning lights, reports of steering problems may lead to the recall of a further 334,000 Tesla vehicles.
Safety Issues Reported Lead to Tesla Recall
Safety regulators say the brake, park, and antilock brake warning lights on Tesla vehicles have a smaller font size than required by federal safety standards. This could essentially make critical safety information difficult to read, increasing the risk of a car accident or collision. The Tesla recall will be done via an online software update, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Meanwhile, a separate investigation into steering problems involving more than 334,000 vehicles is underway and could result in an additional Tesla recall soon.
NHTSA began looking at the steering problem last July after receiving a dozen complaints about loss of steering control in the 2023 Model Y and 3 vehicles. Tesla has already started issuing the software updates, and vehicle owners will be notified by letter starting March 30. NHTSA said it found the problem during a routine safety compliance audit in January. Tesla has identified three warranty claims linked to the issue but has not yet received any reports of crashes or injuries.
Documents produced by NHTSA say drivers are reporting a loss of steering control, often accompanied by messages showing that the power-assisted steering has been reduced or disabled. One driver said they were unable to finish a right turn and ran into another vehicle. The federal agency has also said there have been a number of reports of Tesla vehicles blocking intersections or roadways. More than 50 vehicles had to be towed, according to consumer complaints.
Problems with Tesla Autopilot and FSD
These latest issues are not the only problems to force a Tesla recall in recent times. In December, Tesla issued another over-the-air recall to limit the use of its Autopilot feature. That recall came after NHTSA’s two-year probe of about 1,000 crashes in which the semi-automated feature was engaged. A year ago, the automaker also recalled all 363,000 U.S. vehicles then on the road with its “full self-driving” or FSD feature. Those vehicles were recalled after NHTSA made a determination that cars operating with the feature would violate traffic laws.
In addition, NHTSA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been investigating incidents involving Tesla vehicles using a number of driver-assist features, including a series of crashes into emergency vehicles on the scene of other accidents. Tesla vehicles equipped with FSD cost more, while its promise of a self-driving car, which is now in its beta phase, is a major selling point for the company both to consumers and investors.
Tesla Safety Concerns and Liability Issues
Tesla has faced scrutiny and concerns regarding safety issues in some of its vehicles, raising questions about auto product liability. Autopilot, Tesla’s advanced driver-assistance system, has particularly been linked to accidents where drivers allegedly relied too heavily on the system’s capabilities. This has sparked several prominent self-driving car accident legal cases.
In addition to Autopilot concerns, there have been reports of battery-related incidents, including fires in Tesla vehicles. While electric vehicle batteries are generally considered safe, these incidents have led to increased attention on the safety of electric vehicles and the potential risks associated with their energy storage systems.
Auto Liability in Tesla Cases
The issue of auto product liability arises as regulators and consumers question whether Tesla bears responsibility for accidents involving its Autopilot system or any other safety-related incidents. The evolving landscape of autonomous driving technologies adds complexity to the determination of liability, as it involves a combination of human and machine decision-making.
Tesla, like other automakers, faces the challenge of navigating the legal and regulatory framework surrounding product liability in the automotive industry. As technology continues to advance, addressing safety concerns and ensuring clear guidelines for product liability will be crucial for both Tesla and the broader auto industry to maintain public trust and safety standards.
Injured in a Tesla Car Accident?
If you have been injured in a Tesla car accident or impacted by a Tesla recall, it is essential to prioritize your well-being and take immediate steps to protect your rights. First, seek medical attention promptly, even if injuries seem minor. Document the accident scene, gather witness information, and take photos if possible. Contact law enforcement to ensure an official report is filed. Preserve evidence such as vehicle damage, and exchange insurance information with the other parties involved.
Additionally, it is crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who specializes in auto defects and accidents – specifically auto product liability issues involving Tesla vehicles. They can guide you through the legal process, help determine liability, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Notify your insurance company promptly and provide them with any necessary details. Keeping detailed records of medical treatment, expenses, and communication with all parties involved will strengthen your potential case.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/yourmoney/article-13037897/Tesla-double-crash-risk-Elon-Musks-company-fix-2-2-million-cars-warning-messages-small-drivers-read-probed-steering-wheel-problem.html