NHTSA opens investigation into Tesla Full Self-Driving after Arizona fatal crash

Summary

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration launched a probe into Tesla's Full Self‑Driving (FSD) software following four low‑visibility crashes, one of which on November 27, 2023 in Rimrock, Arizona killed a 71‑year‑old pedestrian. The incident involved a Tesla Model Y operating on FSD that collided with a stopped Toyota 4Runner and the pedestrian, with sun glare cited as a contributing factor. The investigation will examine whether the system can reliably detect and respond to reduced roadway visibility such as glare, fog and dust. The probe adds to mounting regulatory scrutiny of Tesla's camera‑only approach after prior FSD recalls.