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Elon Musk denies Tesla’s Autopilot caused crash that killed grandmother

Elon Musk denies Tesla’s Autopilot caused crash that killed grandmother

Summary

A Texas family sued Tesla after a crash killed a grandmother, claiming the car’s automated driving system caused the accident. Tesla and its CEO Elon Musk denied the system was responsible, while authorities continue to investigate the crash.

Key Facts

  • The crash involved a Tesla Model 3 hitting a house and killing 76-year-old Martha Avila.
  • The family sued Tesla for over $1 million, saying the automated driving system was defective.
  • The driver, Michael Butler, reported that Tesla’s automated assist feature was engaged during the crash.
  • Police said Butler was not drunk and is cooperating with the investigation.
  • Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk said the crash happened at high speed, which is unusual for their Full Self Driving (FSD) system in neighborhoods.
  • Tesla’s AI VP said the driver pressed the accelerator fully, implying driver error, but did not show proof.
  • The family’s lawsuit suggests two possible defects: sudden unintended acceleration caused by electrical issues, and the car missing obstacle detection because of removed hardware during a chip shortage.
  • The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is also investigating the crash.
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