WHY THIS MATTERS IN BRIEF

While the cause of the crash hasn’t been determined yet investigators are turning their attentions to the cars safety systems.

 

Driverless cars have gone from the realms of science fiction to the streets of major US states and cities – from Pittsburg to Singapore – within just a few years. Meanwhile regulators around the world, who have arguably been caught short footed, are still trying to understand and get to grips with the safety implications that at this new technology will have on drivers and civilians.

As a consequence it’s understandable that every accident involving a semi, or fully autonomous vehicle are scrutinised in minute detail, much more so than a regular RTA. Once again Tesla find themselves under the microscope when, too soon after a Tesla Model S driver died in Florida, another 53 year old Tesla Model S driver has tragically died after crashing into a tree at high speeds in the Baarn, Netherlands. At the moment though the cause of the crash – specifically whether or not the driver had engaged Tesla’s Autopilot feature – is unclear.

According to DutchNews, the crash took place on a country road around 6AM. Rescue teams responded quickly but reports say the driver was already dead by the time firefighters arrived on the scene.

The rescue team was, at first, unable to extract the driver’s body for fear of being electrocuted and the driver’s body was only recovered after Tesla dispatched its technicians to provide the much needed help.

While investigations are being held to determine the cause of the accident it’s still unclear why the built in safety features on the Tesla didn’t save the driver.

“Tesla launched a full investigation. Once the outcome is known, Tesla will share with the public,” the company said.