Tesla Autopilot and Self-Driving Accidents: What You Need to Know

Self-driving vehicles are no longer futuristic concepts—they’re on the road today. While this innovation is exciting, it introduces new risks for passengers, other drivers, and pedestrians. Accidents involving Tesla vehicles raise complex questions about fault and accountability, particularly when autonomous features like Autopilot are involved.

Understanding Tesla’s Autopilot System

Tesla’s driver-assistance technologies are branded under names like “Autopilot” and “Full Self-Driving” (FSD). However, these terms can be misleading. Tesla’s current systems are classified as Level 2 automation—meaning they require constant driver supervision and cannot operate independently.

Despite Tesla CEO Elon Musk’s vision of achieving Level 5 autonomy (fully autonomous in all conditions), no Tesla vehicle is capable of that as of 2025. Nevertheless, Tesla has marketed FSD features for years, charging customers thousands of dollars for a system that still relies on human intervention.

Misleading Marketing Claims

Tesla has repeatedly described its driver-assist features in ways that critics argue are deceptive. Regulators and consumers have raised concerns that Tesla exaggerated the capabilities of Autopilot and FSD, leading drivers to overestimate what the vehicles can safely do. Internal documents, public statements, and even Tesla’s own admissions have shown inconsistencies between marketing and reality.

These misrepresentations include:

• Suggesting that vehicles were close to being fully autonomous
• Failing to clarify the system’s limitations
• Marketing FSD while acknowledging it still requires human input

This confusion has fueled lawsuits and regulatory scrutiny, especially when accidents occur involving

Tesla’s autonomous features.

Common Causes of Tesla Autopilot Crashes

Tesla’s Autopilot has been linked to various crash scenarios, including:

• Vehicles running red lights or making errant turns
• Collisions with stationary objects like emergency vehicles
• Failures in obstacle detection and phantom braking

Contributing factors may include:

• Poor lighting or adverse weather
• Sensor and software malfunctions
• Misunderstanding of system capabilities by drivers

These problems are compounded by how Tesla names and advertises its features, often leading users to over-rely on technology that isn’t fully autonomous.

Evidence in Tesla Accident Cases

In lawsuits involving Tesla’s Autopilot, attorneys may use:

• Forensic crash data
• User agreements and driver warnings
• Expert witness testimony
• Tesla’s internal communications and engineering data
• Evidence of defects in sensors, cameras, or software

Proving that Autopilot didn’t perform as advertised can be key to holding Tesla accountable.

Determining Liability

Accidents involving self-driving or semi-autonomous systems raise challenging legal questions. Who is responsible—the driver, the software, or the manufacturer? The answer depends on a detailed investigation of the incident and system performance at the time.

Critical issues include:

• Fault determination
• Insurance claims
• Expert medical and technical testimony

Don’t be a Victim Twice – Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462)

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Tesla Autopilot-related accident, it’s important to act quickly. Greenstein & Pittari, LLP, are experienced Tesla accident lawyers who understand the technical and legal complexities of Tesla self-driving accidents. Our firm’s motto is: “Don’t Be a Victim Twice.” Don’t be a Victim Twice – Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462)

We help victims:

• Understand their legal rights
• File claims for personal injury or wrongful death
• Navigate insurance negotiations
• Seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more

Our team of Tesla accident lawyers will guide you through the process. Call 1-800-VICTIM2 (1-800-842-8462) for a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win—our “No Fee Unless Successful” guarantee.