Tesla recalls after Super Bowl ad Slams Full Self-Driving Software

On Thursday, Tesla launched a recall to repair defects to the experimental “Full Self-Driving” software deployed on public roads. The recall affects 362,758 Tesla vehicles and includes Tesla Model S (2016-23), Model X, Model 3 (2013-17) and Model Y (2020-23) vehicles.  

The recall shows that the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) is finally getting serious about self-driving vehicles and public safety. Filings with NHTSA show that the vehicles using FSD Beta were acting in an unsafe manner, particularly at intersections. According to NHTSA’s documents, some of the concerns include the vehicles potentially traveling directly through intersections while in a turn-only lane, proceeding into an intersection during a steady yellow traffic signal without due caution, and entering a stop-sign controlled intersection without coming to a complete stop. 

Tesla will release an over-the-air software update for the issue free of charge. In addition, owner notification letters are expected to be mailed by April 15, 2023. Owners can contact Tesla customer service at 877-798-3752, with the recall number SB-23-00-001. 

In the meantime, the California Department of Motor Vehicles is nearly two years into a review of whether Tesla has violated state law by marketing the idea that Full Self-Driving means the car is capable of fully driving itself.

Tesla has been under Fire for Years from critiques alleging their software is a risk 

As many gathered around the TV during Super Bowl Sunday, one commercial may have garnered concern. Electric carmaker Tesla faced a hit when an ad presented the alleged dangers of its Full Self-Driving, showing FSA Teslas running over child-size dummies. In addition, the ad showed the car swerving into oncoming traffic, zooming past stopped school buses, and driving through “do not enter” signs.  

In the past, the Dawn Project has been an aggressive advocate for making the computer-controlled systems safer for humanity, shooting its own videos as tests of Tesla’s alleged design flaws. The Super Bowl ad is a part of a multimillion dollar advertising campaign by The Dawn Project, whose CEO Dan O’Dowd has dedicated millions of his money to raise awareness of the safety for computer-cntrolled systems. 

With this ad, The Dawn Project requested that NHTSA issue an emergency recall of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving software to ensure that road users and pedestrians are protected from the dangers. They were successful, as the recall has now taken place. The group’s ad aired in select cities, including Austin, Texas, Atlanta, and Wasington, D.C. A spokesperson told CBS MoneyWatch The Dawn Project paid $598,000 for the 30-second spot.  

The Carlson Law Firm Cares About Your Safety

The Carlson Law Firm’s self-driving car attorneys are paying close attention to new developments and the safety of self-driving vehicles. If you or someone you love has been injured, no matter if it was due to an autonomous vehicle or not, we can help hold the at-fault entity accountable. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights.