Tesla Faces New Fatal Door Handle Lawsuit Amid NHTSA Probe Expansion
Tesla is facing renewed scrutiny following a tragic lawsuit involving its door handle design. The claim, filed in 2024, alleges that the electronic door handles of a 2016 Model S trapped five passengers after a crash in Verona, Wisconsin. This incident has amplified concerns about the safety of Tesla’s door releasing mechanisms.
Tesla Model S Crash Details
The crash occurred when a Model S, driven by Barry Sievers, veered off a semi-rural road and collided with a tree. According to the Dane County Sheriff’s Office, conditions like road status, speed, and potential impairment contributed to the accident. A nearby resident reported hearing the crash and later called 911, noting that the car was on fire and that screams were audible for several minutes.
- Number of Occupants: Five
- Casualties: All five occupants died
- Location: Verona, Wisconsin
- Date of Incident: 2024
Allegations of Negligence by Tesla
The lawsuit, initiated by the families of Jeffrey and Michelle Bauer, accuses Tesla of negligence in its door handle design. It states that the electronic door release mechanisms, which lack a fail-safe for power loss, fail to ensure passenger safety under critical conditions. Although mechanical releases are included in Tesla vehicles, their accessibility varies significantly.
Concerns Over Door Handle Safety
The 2016 Model S features a mechanical release for front doors, but the rear doors have an obscured mechanism hidden under a carpet. The plaintiffs argue that this design flaw can lead to dire situations, as seen in the recent crash. They demand accountability for Tesla’s design decisions and seek unspecified damages for negligence.
Battery Safety Features Scrutinized
In addition to concerns about the door handles, the lawsuit points out that the 2016 Model S lacked critical safety features found in subsequent models. These features include adequate firewalls and fire-suppressive materials designed to limit fire spread during a crash. The lawsuit asserts that Tesla’s choices did not meet safety recommendations, raising questions about the battery safety of earlier models.
Pending Investigations and Broader Implications
This lawsuit coincides with a broader investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which has recently expanded its probe into Tesla’s door handle design. The manufacturer has acknowledged the need for redesigns, yet specifics on implementation remain unclear.
Conclusion
Tesla’s ongoing challenges regarding its door handle design and vehicle safety are coming under increased public and legal scrutiny. As the NHTSA continues to investigate, the outcome of this lawsuit may lead to significant changes in automotive safety standards and regulations for electronic door mechanisms.
