Jury orders Tesla to pay more than $240 million in Autopilot crash : NPR

Dillon Angulo, who was seriously injured in a Florida crash involving Tesla’s Autopilot driver assist technology, speaks to reporters outside the federal courthouse in Miami on Friday.

David Fischer/AP

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David Fischer/AP

MIAMI — A Miami jury has ruled that Tesla is partially liable for a fatal crash in Florida involving its Autopilot driver assist technology and must pay over $240 million in damages to the victims.

The jury found Tesla responsible for the crash due to technology failure and emphasized that not all blame should be placed on a distracted driver. This verdict comes at a crucial time as Tesla aims to introduce a driverless taxi service in various cities soon.

The outcome of this case, which went to trial after four years, is significant as it sheds light on the accountability of companies like Tesla in such incidents. The plaintiffs’ successful lawsuit may encourage more individuals to seek legal recourse in similar situations.

The trial also revealed allegations of Tesla withholding or losing key evidence related to the crash. Despite Tesla’s initial denials, the plaintiffs were able to uncover this evidence through a forensic data expert.

Tesla has denied the verdict, stating that it hinders progress in automotive safety and undermines efforts to develop life-saving technologies. The company plans to appeal the decision.

In addition to the punitive damages awarded, Tesla has been ordered to pay compensatory damages totaling $129 million, with the total amount to be paid by the company reaching $243 million.

Financial analysts predict that this ruling will have repercussions for the automotive industry, impacting trust in autonomous driving technologies. Tesla’s reputation for safety may be challenged following this verdict.

Despite Tesla’s advancements in technology since the crash, questions surrounding trust and transparency remain. The case highlighted concerns about Tesla’s Autopilot system and its potential risks when not used responsibly by drivers.

The verdict in the Miami case has implications for the entire auto industry as companies navigate the development of self-driving vehicles amidst legal uncertainties.