A driver of a Tesla Model S that police say was operated by its autopilot system collided with a motorcycle Friday in Snohomish, Washington, killing the 28-year-old rider.
According to law enforcement reports, the 56-year-old driver of the Tesla was using his phone, not monitoring the road, when the car collided with the motorcyclist at speed.
The victim, Jeffrey Nissen, was launched from his motorcycle and fatally injured, becoming trapped under the electric vehicle. Authorities reported he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Tesla told police he had activated the autopilot system and was relying on it to operate the car at the time of the accident. He recalled being alerted to the crash only by the sound of the collision.
He was arrested and charged with vehicular homicide. After posting bail, he was released pending further investigation.
The incident raises questions about the limitations of automated driving technology and the responsibilities of drivers using it.
Tesla says its autopilot and full self-driving technologies require the full attention of the driver, who must be ready to take control of the vehicle at any moment.
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