A Tesla driver in Barrington Hills, Illinois, is facing charges after colliding with a South Barrington police vehicle last week. The driver reportedly claimed to have been asleep at the time of the incident and attributed the collision to the Tesla’s Autopilot system.
According to police reports, the driver was questioned following the accident and stated they fell asleep while the vehicle was in Autopilot mode. Fortunately, the two officers in the patrol vehicle sustained no serious injuries. Images depicting damage to the police vehicle were released by authorities.
The Barrington Hills Police Department has arrested the driver on multiple charges related to the incident. This case has re-ignited discussions surrounding the safe and responsible use of driver-assistance systems.
Tesla’s Autopilot is classified as a Level 2 driver-assistance system, not a fully autonomous system (Level 5). This classification requires the driver to remain fully attentive, keep their hands on the steering wheel, and be prepared to take control at any time.
If the driver’s claim of falling asleep is accurate, the incident raises questions about potential flaws in the system’s safety mechanisms. Typically, a vehicle should issue repeated visual and audible warnings if it detects driver inattentiveness and subsequently deactivate the system. Authorities are investigating whether the driver ignored these warnings or potentially disabled the steering torque sensors through deceptive means.
“Vehicle automation technology continues to advance and can enhance safety when used correctly,” said South Barrington Deputy Police Chief Adam Puralewski. “However, it is important to remember that drivers are always responsible for the safe operation of their vehicles.”
