Can You Sue Tesla for Autopilot Malfunctions? Your Rights and Legal Recourse

Tesla’s Autopilot system has revolutionized the driving experience, offering features like lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, and self-steering. However, this technology isn’t without its risks. When Autopilot malfunctions, accidents can occur, leaving victims with injuries and questions about liability. If you’ve been involved in a Tesla accident where Autopilot malfunctioned, you might be wondering: Can you sue Tesla for Autopilot malfunctions? What are your rights and what legal recourse is available?

Understanding Tesla Autopilot

Tesla’s Autopilot is an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) designed to assist drivers with certain tasks, enhancing safety and convenience. It’s important to note that Autopilot is not a fully autonomous system. Tesla emphasizes that drivers must remain attentive and ready to take control at all times. Tesla also offers a “Full Self-Driving” (FSD) package, which includes additional features, but it is also not fully autonomous.

The Complexities of Liability in Autopilot Accidents

Determining liability in Tesla Autopilot accidents can be complex. While Autopilot is intended to enhance safety, it doesn’t absolve the driver of responsibility. Tesla’s official stance is that drivers are expected to supervise the system and be ready to take over if something goes wrong. Courts have often agreed that the ultimate responsibility lies with the human behind the wheel.

However, there are situations where Tesla itself may be held liable. If a crash is caused by a defective sensor, faulty software, or a design flaw in Autopilot, Tesla could be held partially or even fully liable under product liability laws.

Grounds for Suing Tesla for Autopilot Malfunctions

Several legal grounds may support a lawsuit against Tesla for Autopilot malfunctions:

Product Liability: Tesla can face legal claims under product liability laws, which hold manufacturers accountable for defective products. If an Autopilot accident occurs due to a flaw in Tesla’s software or hardware, the company might be sued for negligence. For example, if a software glitch causes the car to misinterpret road signs, Tesla could be liable.
Negligence: If Tesla was negligent in the design, manufacturing, or testing of the Autopilot system, they could be held liable for resulting accidents. This could involve failing to identify and correct known defects or failing to provide adequate warnings about the system’s limitations.
Misleading Marketing: Misleading marketing claims can also serve as grounds for a lawsuit. If Tesla’s advertisements create the impression that Autopilot or FSD is fully autonomous, plaintiffs may argue that these claims contributed to unsafe usage.

Recent Legal Cases and Settlements

Tesla has faced numerous lawsuits related to Autopilot malfunctions. While the company has won some cases, there have also been significant settlements and verdicts against them.

Recent Settlements: In September 2025, Tesla settled two California lawsuits stemming from Autopilot-related crashes resulting in fatalities, avoiding trials in both cases.
Florida Verdict: In August 2025, a Florida jury ordered Tesla to pay over $200 million to victims of a deadly 2019 crash involving Autopilot. The jury found Tesla 33% responsible for the crash, with the remaining blame placed on the driver.
Other Cases: Tesla has also settled other high-profile cases, including a 2018 crash where a Tesla Model X veered off a California freeway into a highway barrier while the driver was using Autopilot.

These cases highlight the ongoing legal challenges concerning the safety and effectiveness of Tesla’s Autopilot system.

Challenges in Establishing Liability

Establishing liability in Autopilot cases can be challenging. Tesla often argues that the driver is ultimately responsible for maintaining control of the vehicle. They also point to disclaimers and warnings provided to drivers about the limitations of Autopilot.

To successfully sue Tesla, you’ll need to demonstrate that the accident was caused by a defect in the Autopilot system or by Tesla’s negligence. This requires strong evidence, such as:

Vehicle Data: Data from the Tesla’s computer can provide insights into the Autopilot system’s behavior leading up to the crash.
Expert Analysis: Accident reconstruction experts can analyze the data and other evidence to determine the cause of the accident.
Witness Testimony: Witness statements can help establish the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Tesla Documents: Internal documents and communications can reveal what Tesla knew about potential defects or safety risks.

Your Rights and Legal Recourse

If you’ve been injured in a Tesla accident involving Autopilot malfunctions, you have the right to seek compensation for your losses. This may include:

Medical Expenses: Compensation for past and future medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and other healthcare expenses.
Lost Wages: Reimbursement for lost income and diminished earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages.
Property Damage: Coverage for damage to your vehicle and other property.
Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, you may also be able to recover punitive damages.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Navigating the legal complexities of a Tesla Autopilot lawsuit requires the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can:

Investigate the Accident: Gather evidence, interview witnesses, and work with experts to determine the cause of the crash.
Assess Your Damages: Calculate the full extent of your losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Negotiate with Tesla: Negotiate with Tesla’s insurance company to reach a fair settlement.
File a Lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached, file a lawsuit and represent you in court.

Tesla’s Responsibility and the Future of Autopilot

As autonomous driving technology evolves, it’s crucial to address the legal and ethical implications of these systems. Tesla has a responsibility to ensure the safety of its Autopilot system and to provide clear and accurate information to drivers about its capabilities and limitations.

Have You Been Injured in a Tesla Autopilot Accident?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Tesla accident involving Autopilot malfunctions, it’s essential to protect your rights and seek legal guidance. Contact a qualified personal injury attorney to discuss your case and explore your legal options.