A significant trial has commenced in Miami concerning Tesla, the car company led by billionaire Elon Musk. The focus of the case is on whether Tesla bears any responsibility for the tragic death of university student Naibel Benavides Leon, who was fatally injured in a crash involving one of its vehicles, while her boyfriend sustained severe injuries. During the incident in April 2019, a Tesla Model S, reportedly in Autopilot mode, failed to stop for flashing red lights and a stop sign, reaching speeds of nearly 110 km/h before crashing into a parked Chevy Tahoe.
Plaintiff attorneys argue that Tesla’s Autopilot should have responded by warning the driver and applying the brakes, asserting that the driver, George McGee, was distracted while attempting to retrieve a dropped mobile phone. In contrast, Tesla maintains that the driver’s inattention is solely responsible for the crash. Tesla issued a statement emphasising that the accident arose from a distracted driver rather than any malfunction of their technology.
McGee faced a separate lawsuit from the plaintiffs, which has since been settled. However, the current trial holds greater stakes for Tesla, as a ruling against the company could significantly undermine public trust in its self-driving systems, particularly as it plans to roll out a fleet of robotaxis across the US next year.
Jury trials of this nature are infrequent for Tesla, which typically opts to settle legal disputes. Furthermore, in this case, a judge recently ruled that the plaintiffs could pursue punitive damages, adding to the seriousness of the trial. Although the judge dismissed charges surrounding defective manufacturing and negligent misrepresentation, the door remains open for claims related to Tesla’s conduct, potentially leading to significant financial consequences if found liable.
The lawsuit claims that McGee erroneously relied on the Autopilot feature to stop the vehicle when encountering obstacles, including the parked SUV where Benavides and her boyfriend were looking at the stars. The Tesla collided with the Tahoe, resulting in Benavides’ death and causing her to be thrown into a nearby wooded area.
In the preparations for court, Tesla has dismissed nearly all allegations in the lawsuit. The company asserts that drivers are expected to adhere to the guidance provided in the vehicle’s manual and are reminded of their obligation to remain vigilant while driving. Tesla’s manuals clearly state its cars are not capable of fully autonomous driving, and drivers must be prepared to take control at all times.