Have you been in a car crash with a Tesla driver? As Teslas become more common throughout the state of North Carolina, accidents involving these advanced vehicles raise a lot of questions regarding features like Autopilot and Full Self-Driving.
Together, the dynamics of crashes involving Teslas are more complicated, especially compared to their traditional counterparts. But you don’t have to figure out these discrepancies on your own. Instead, reach out to a Tesla accident lawyer in Monroe for legal guidance.
At DeMayo Law Offices, our attorneys have more than 250 years of experience, and we have recovered over $1 billion in compensation. Since 1992, we’ve represented 125,000 people and counting. We want to help you as your Monroe car accident lawyer.
Autopilot, Full Self-Driving, and Driver Responsibilities
An important distinction in Tesla-related crashes is whether the vehicle was being operated manually or in an automated mode. Tesla’s Autopilot and FSD systems allow the vehicle to assist with the following behaviors:
- Acceleration
- Steering
- Lane changes
- Traffic navigation
However, these systems are not fully autonomous. Tesla drivers are required to remain attentive and ready to take control at all times, even when the vehicle appears to be handling itself. North Carolina law assigns liability based on negligence.
A Tesla driver could fail to respond to alerts from the system, such as reminders to hold the steering wheel. If a crash results from this choice, their inaction may be considered a contributing factor. In North Carolina, even 1% of fault on the part of a driver can bar recovery of damages.
This is due to the doctrine of pure contributory negligence. Autopilot logs and system recordings often become central to crash investigations, but your Monroe personal injury lawyer will handle these matters on your behalf. The sooner you retain legal counsel, the sooner they can help.
For a free legal consultation with a tesla accident lawyer serving Monroe, call (877) 333-1000
Event Data Recorders and Tesla Telemetry
Every Tesla is equipped with an Event Data Recorder (EDR), also known as a vehicle’s “black box.” These systems track detailed technical information before, during, and after a crash. When a Tesla is involved in an accident, the EDR can capture information such as:
- Speed at the time of the crash
- Acceleration and deceleration patterns
- Brake application
- Steering input
- Airbag deployment
- Use of driver-assistance features
- Seatbelt engagement
Tesla’s EDR follows national standards, such as the SAE J1698 format. The data it stores can be accessed by specialized diagnostic tools and used to reconstruct the sequence of events that led to the collision.
In Monroe, where accidents can occur on high-speed highways, narrow two-lane roads, or suburban streets, EDR data can clarify key questions, such as:
- Was the Tesla driver paying attention?
- Was the car following too closely?
- Did the system fail to detect a hazard?
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Common Types of Tesla Accidents in Monroe
Tesla vehicles are involved in many of the same types of accidents as traditional cars, but the presence of automation features and lithium-ion batteries adds additional layers. Still, here are some examples of Tesla-involved car crashes.
Rear-End Collisions
Teslas may stop more quickly than expected due to emergency braking or driver-assist features. If the following driver is not maintaining a safe distance, a rear-end collision may occur.
Conversely, if a Tesla driver stops abruptly while on Autopilot, questions may arise about whether the system operated correctly or if a warning was issued. A Monroe Tesla accident attorney can look into the technology and demonstrate that the Tesla vehicle operator was responsible for your crash.
Intersection Crashes
Crashes at intersections—particularly on roads like U.S. 601, NC-200, and Morgan Mill Road—are common in Monroe.
Autopilot systems may struggle with complicated traffic signals or unmarked intersections. If a Tesla proceeds through a red light due to a system error or driver inattention, liability could become a point of contention.
Pedestrian and Cyclist Incidents
Although Tesla’s cameras are designed to detect pedestrians and cyclists, low visibility or sensor limitations can prevent the system from responding properly. In such cases, both driver oversight and system performance may be evaluated in determining fault.
Single-Vehicle Accidents
In rural areas outside of Monroe, Teslas may be involved in single-vehicle crashes due to system errors, mechanical failure, or driver distraction. Logging data can help determine whether the vehicle responded to curves, speed limits, or roadside hazards appropriately.
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Tesla Recalls and Over-the-Air Updates
Tesla frequently issues over-the-air software updates, including those tied to safety recalls identified by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These updates may address braking response, lane guidance, forward collision warnings, or battery management.
If a Tesla involved in a crash had an unresolved software issue that was the subject of a recall, the circumstances of the accident may raise questions of product liability. North Carolina recognizes claims based on the following factors:
- Design defects
- Manufacturing defects
- Failure to warn
Any of these factors may come into play in crashes involving malfunctioning automation features. North Carolina’s courts allow the introduction of recall and service records as part of accident investigations. Drivers must maintain their vehicles and apply software updates in a timely manner, regardless of whether those updates occur at a service center or via download.
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Contact Our Monroe Tesla Accident Lawyers Today For More Information About What We Can Do For You
If you or someone you love was injured in a collision with a Tesla driver, you don’t have to face the aftermath of your circumstances alone; a Tesla accident attorney in Monroe can help you. At DeMayo Law Offices, we understand the technology of Teslas and the laws that surround them, so we can confidently represent you in your pursuit of compensation.
You deserve justice, and we can help you as Your North Carolina Law Firm™. Don’t wait to reach out—we’re here for you. The sooner you contact us, the sooner we can start taking the necessary steps to hold those responsible for hurting you accountable.
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