Israeli police questioned a 36-year-old Tesla driver after video footage circulated online appearing to show him asleep behind the wheel while his vehicle continued traveling along the road.
The video, which spread widely across social media over the past day, drew considerable attention and renewed concerns about drivers relying too heavily on advanced driver-assistance technology.
According to Channel 12 News, police summoned the driver for questioning on suspicion of careless driving and failing to maintain proper control of the steering wheel. He was released after the questioning was completed.
In the footage, the driver, a resident of Migdal HaEmek, can apparently be seen with his eyes closed and his head leaning forward even as the Tesla continues moving.
The incident has once again prompted discussion about Tesla’s sophisticated driver-assistance features and the important distinction between technology designed to assist a motorist and a vehicle capable of operating fully autonomously.
Police emphasized that regardless of the technology installed in a vehicle, responsibility for safely operating it remains with the person behind the wheel.
“Israeli law requires drivers to keep their hands on the wheel, maintain control of the vehicle and remain alert at all times,” police said.
Authorities further stressed that driver-assistance technology does not transform a Tesla into an autonomous vehicle and does not give motorists permission to sleep, stop paying attention or otherwise surrender control while traveling.
{Matzav.com}
