California Police Stop Tesla After Driver Falls Asleep Using FSD at 97 km/h

Police in California stopped a Tesla after discovering that its driver had fallen asleep while the vehicle continued moving at approximately 97 kilometers per hour under Full Self-Driving (FSD), according to a report from Chosunbiz. The incident has renewed scrutiny of how drivers are using Tesla's advanced driver-assistance features on public roads.

What Happened

According to the report, officers intervened after identifying that the driver was asleep behind the wheel while the Tesla remained in motion, with FSD apparently keeping the vehicle traveling in its lane at highway speed. The report did not specify the exact location within California, the model of Tesla involved, or the outcome for the driver, such as whether a citation was issued.

Context on FSD and Driver Responsibility

Tesla's FSD software is classified as a driver-assistance system, meaning drivers are required to remain attentive and ready to take control at all times, even when the feature is engaged. Tesla vehicles equipped with FSD include monitoring systems designed to detect driver inattentiveness, though the Chosunbiz report did not detail how this specific incident was first detected or reported to authorities.

The case adds to a broader pattern of public attention on incidents involving drivers who appear to over-rely on Tesla's semi-autonomous features, raising questions about enforcement and safety oversight as such systems become more widespread. Chosunbiz did not report any statement from Tesla, California law enforcement, or the driver involved in this specific incident.

Source: Chosunbiz