Tesla Announces Recall on Nearly 54,000 Vehicles
Tesla recently announced that about 54,000 of its electric vehicles will be recalled due to the Full Self-Driving (FSD) Beta software that allows some models to roll through stop signs rather than coming to a complete stop, which is illegal in most states.
Tesla will disable the rolling stop feature and maintain constant contact with manufacturers to discuss potential safety concerns.
Tesla Models to Be Recalled
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall covers newer vehicles that are equipped with the Full Self-Driving Beta software:
- Model S sedans and X SUVs from 2016 to 2022
- Model 3 sedans 2017 through 2022
- Model Y SUVs 2020 through 2022
NHTSA said Tesla drivers of the recalled models above are not required to take any actions. The recall will happen in early February, and the feature will be disabled using an over-the-air software update.
Why Rolling Stops Are Dangerous
Rollings stops, also known as California stops, are when a car does not stop entirely at a stop sign or a red light. NHTSA said failing to stop at an intersection can increase the risk of an accident.
Auto safety advocates say stop signs are placed to protect children at intersections when crossing guards are not present. They say Tesla’s system is an unsafe feature and should not have been placed in the vehicles.
How Does the Rolling Stop Feature Work?
Tesla introduced the rolling stop feature in October 2020 as part of an option that drivers can use if they choose self-driving features. According to Tesla, drivers can switch between “assertive,” “average,” or “chill.” The assertive mode is the feature that allows cars to perform rolling stops.
When the driver enables the rolling stop feature, the vehicle can go through stop signs as long as it is traveling at o.1 miles per hour to 5.6 miles per hour while approaching the intersection, and no other cars, pedestrians, or bicycles are detected nearby. The street leading to the intersection must have a speed limit of 30 mph or less.
Telsa Has Faced Multiple Recalls and Issues
This is not the first time Tesla has faced a recall or had problems with its vehicles.
- In December 2021, Tesla recalled about half a million vehicles due to defects in the rearview camera and trunk that could increase the risk of accidents.
- In November 2021, nearly 12,000 vehicles were recalled due to a software glitch that caused the cars to unexpectedly activate the automatic emergency brake.
- In August 2021, NHTSA opened an investigation into the autopilot driver assistance in 765,000 Telsa vehicles after a dozen auto accidents occurred. The investigation is still ongoing.
- In January 2022, NHTSA opened a formal safety investigation into 580,000 vehicles that allow passengers to play games on the front center touchscreen.
- In February 2022, Tesla recalled over 817,000 vehicles due to an alert that may not activate the seat belt when the car starts.
Telsa’s Full Self-Driving Feature
While Telsa has charged thousands of dollars for its Full Self-Driving feature and promised it will live up to its name someday, the feature is still in beta stages, and people must continue to maneuver the steering wheel. The company says the beta software is required to reach real self-driving. In a document, Telsa said it doesn’t know of any crashes, injuries, or deaths caused by this feature.
Watch YouTube Video: Tesla Recall Has Self-Driving Features in the Spotlight. The video from NBC News below reports on the Telsa rolling stop feature recall and explains why it’s not the only Telsa feature in the spotlight.
Compensation for Your Losses from a Tesla Accident
If you are hit by a Tesla, or you were a passenger in a Tesla and sustained injuries in a crash, it is essential to speak to an experienced Sacramento personal injury lawyer immediately to discuss your legal options. If you decide to move forward with filing a personal injury lawsuit, you can claim compensation for economic damages and non-economic damages.
Economic damages include the following:
- Loss of past and future earnings
- Past and future medical bills
- Household services
Non-economic damages include the following:
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium
Personal Injury Lawyers in Sacramento
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento personal injury lawyer. It may seem daunting to take legal action against a big corporation like Tesla, and that’s why you need an experienced attorney on your side. If you or a family member has suffered severe injuries in an accident involving a Tesla vehicle, please call our law firm at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice.
We are proud members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.
See our client reviews on Google, Yelp, and Avvo and our case history of verdicts and settlements.
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