“Autopilot Buddy” for Tesla Cars Deemed Unsafe

“Autopilot Buddy” Aftermarket Device for Tesla Cars Deemed Unsafe

Jul 14,2018

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a cease and desist order for a product known as “Autopilot Buddy,” deeming it unsafe for the public. The product is an aftermarket device created to disable a safety feature in Tesla vehicles that warns drivers if their hands are not on the steering wheel when Autopilot is engaged.

Dolder, Falco and Reese Partners, the makers of the product, market it as a “Tesla Autopilot nag-reduction device.” The NHTSA stated that the product puts customers and other people on the road at risk, and is unacceptable. Tesla issued a statement in support of the agency’s decision.

Over-Reliance on Vehicle Tech Can be Dangerous

As driver-assistance technology continues to develop and become more capable, regulators must be diligent in policing aftermarket products that can make these systems more dangerous. Drivers tend to rely on the technology and even overestimate its capabilities, which can lead to serious accidents, such as the one that took the life of a Tesla driver near Mountain View earlier this year.

“Driver-assistance technology has many benefits, but it can certainly become dangerous if drivers rely too heavily on it,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, El Centro, and Yucca Valley, and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.