MIAMI — Tesla is appealing a $243 million verdict linked to a fatal crash involving its Autopilot technology, claiming the jury was misled during the trial. The appeal was filed in federal court, where the company is seeking to overturn the ruling, request a new trial, or significantly lower the damages awarded. This case stems from a tragic accident in 2019 that resulted in the death of 22-year-old Naibel Benavides.
The lawsuit, which concluded with a jury finding the driver predominantly at fault, nonetheless implicated Tesla’s Autopilot system as a contributing factor. Benavides’ family, along with her boyfriend Dillon Angulo, received substantial compensatory and punitive damages due to the company’s alleged liability. Tesla argued that allowing the verdict to stand could deter innovation in the automotive industry, asserting it would compel manufacturers to reassess the introduction of advanced safety features.
In its motion, Tesla claimed the plaintiff’s lawyers directed the jury’s focus on CEO Elon Musk in a prejudicial manner, suggesting that the company had willfully concealed crucial evidence including video data related to the accident. While Tesla acknowledged it had failed to present some evidence promptly, the company maintains the oversight was unintentional and not deliberate.
Plaintiffs’ attorneys argued that the terminology Tesla uses, specifically “Autopilot,” is misleading. They contend that it gives the impression of full self-driving capabilities when in reality, it only offers driver assistance, contrasting it with terms like “driver assist” employed by other automakers.
The trial commenced after Tesla rejected a $60 million settlement offer from the plaintiffs, ultimately resulting in a jury award that exceeded four times that amount. Meanwhile, the individual driving the Tesla had previously reached a separate settlement with Benavides’ family.
The outcome of this high-profile case is being closely watched by car manufacturers worldwide as they develop self-driving technology. Concerns are growing that this verdict could set a precedent, holding carmakers liable for accidents even when drivers act recklessly.
Tesla’s filing emphasized that the verdict could have far-reaching implications for innovation in vehicle safety technologies. The company’s representatives cautioned that it could lead to future juries imposing penalties on manufacturers aiming to advance automotive safety.
This unfolding legal battle raises critical questions about accountability in the evolving landscape of autonomous driving—a sector in which traditional legal frameworks may struggle to keep pace with rapid technological advancements.
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