Tesla Model S Crashes into Parked Police Car in California
Overview
A Tesla Model S collided with a stationary police car in California, raising questions about the involvement of the car’s self-drive mode. The incident is currently under investigation by the authorities.
Details of the Incident
- The Tesla Model S crashed into a police car that was blocking traffic after an earlier accident.
- The driver claimed the car was in “self-drive” mode during the collision.
- The police are investigating to determine the actual circumstances of the crash.
Incident Description
The collision occurred after midnight on June 12 in Fullerton, California. The police car had its emergency lights on and flares deployed to signal the accident site.
Driver’s Statement
The driver admitted to activating the vehicle’s “self-drive” mode while using a cell phone. However, it is yet to be confirmed if the autopilot or full-self driving features were engaged at the time of the crash.
Authorities’ Response
The police department emphasized the importance of responsible driving practices, stating that while semi-autonomous systems are convenient, drivers must remain alert and ready to take control at any moment.
Vehicle Damage
The police Dodge Charger sustained significant damage to the front bumper, fender, and passenger side door. In comparison, the Tesla Model S suffered extensive front-end damage and broken windows.
Tesla Autopilot Clarification
Tesla reiterated that their Autopilot and Full Self-Driving features require active driver supervision and do not render the vehicle fully autonomous.
Conclusion
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with no charges announced yet. The collision serves as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices, even when utilizing advanced automotive technologies.
