Self-Driving Tesla Crashes with Police Cruiser in Fullerton
FULLERTON, CA (June 14, 2024) — The accident happened just after midnight at the intersection of West Orangethorpe Avenue and South Gilbert Street in Fullerton, where officers were handling the aftermath of a separate, fatal DUI crash involving a motorcyclist.
According to Sgt. Ryan O’Neil of the Fullerton Police Department, the Tesla, which was operating in automated-drive mode, was being driven by an individual who was distracted by a smartphone at the time of the collision.
Despite visible safety measures like flares and the cruiser’s flashing lights, the Tesla approached at a significant speed and struck the police vehicle, which was fortunately unoccupied at the time. No injuries were reported as the officer near the cruiser managed to move to safety in time.
This Tesla car accident raises critical questions about the reliability and regulation of automated driving technologies, particularly concerning the responsibility and attentiveness required by drivers, even when vehicles operate in autonomous modes.
If you or someone you know has been involved in an accident with a self-driving car, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial. Incidents like these can complicate liability and insurance claims, making it essential to have experienced legal counsel. Contact RTM Law Firm to discuss how we can help. Consultation is free.
