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US automobile safety regulators have commenced an investigation into Tesla cars featuring the full self-driving technology due to traffic-safety violations following multiple crashes.

Regulatory Body Identifies Safety Regulation Violations

The NHTSA declared that the automaker's autonomous driving feature, which demands motorists to stay alert and take control when necessary, had caused car behavior that violated road safety regulations”.

This initial assessment by the NHTSA marks the first step before potentially seeking a recall of the cars if the agency concludes they present a danger to public safety.

Concerning Case Findings

The regulatory body reported it had documented reports of 2.88 million Tesla vehicles running red traffic lights and traveling against the incorrect direction during lane switching while operating the technology.

NHTSA stated it has six reports in which a Tesla car, operating with FSD activated, “came to an junction with a red light, proceeded to drive into the intersection against the red light and was later involved in a collision with other cars in the intersection”.

The authority noted that four accidents had resulted in injuries to occupants.

Further Issues Identified

The NHTSA announced it has identified 18 complaints and one media report alleging that Tesla vehicles, driving through an junction with FSD active, “failed to remain stationary for the entire time of a red traffic signal, did not come to complete stop, or failed to accurately detect and show the proper light status in the car's display”.

Several reporters also stated that FSD “failed to give alerts of the system's planned actions as the car was approaching a red light”.

Continuing Regulatory Scrutiny

Tesla's FSD, which is more advanced than its Autopilot system, has been being examined by NHTSA for twelve months.

In October 2024, the authority started an investigation into over two million Tesla cars using FSD after four documented crashes in conditions of reduced visibility, such as sun glare, mist or airborne dust. One such accident, in last year, was deadly.

Company's Stated Position

The company's official position indicates that FSD is “intended for use with a completely alert motorist, who has their hands on the wheel and is ready to take over at any moment. While these capabilities are designed to improve over time, the presently active features do not make the car self-driving.”

Automated car systems continue to face increased scrutiny from safety agencies as the technology advances and practical implementation reveals possible issues with current implementations.