Texas probes fatal Tesla crash involving automated driving
PUBLISHED Jun 25, 2026, 1:09 PM ET
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U.S. auto safety regulators have opened a special investigation into a deadly Tesla crash in Texas, focusing on whether the company’s automated driving software was active at the time of the collision. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will review the role of Tesla’s robotaxi-related system, which includes full self-driving features now being deployed in multiple markets. Tesla has operated a small robotaxi service in Austin over the past year, gradually removing in-vehicle safety drivers and relying on remote teleoperators in limited situations. NHTSA can order a recall if it identifies a safety defect. Tesla has not publicly commented.
By Sidra | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Last year Tesla begins Austin robotaxi operations
- Last year Safety drivers gradually removed from vehicles
- Recently Teleoperators used to reposition crashed vehicles
- Recently Trump administration proposes easing pedal requirements
- Recently Cybercab, Zoox designs assume no driver controls
- Recently Deadly Tesla crash occurs in Texas
- Recently NHTSA opens special crash investigation
- Today Tesla has not commented on probe
News Intelligence
- If you're a Tesla owner or considering buying one, this investigation could impact you. It's about the safety of Tesla's self-driving features. If a defect is found, a recall could be ordered. Keep an eye on updates from Tesla and NHTSA.
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