Title: Tesla Settles Wrongful Death Lawsuit with the Family of Apple Engineer: Unanswered Questions about Autopilot Remain
Tesla, an innovative electric vehicle and clean energy company based in Palo Alto, California, has reportedly reached a settlement agreement with the family of Walter Huang, a former Apple engineer, over a wrongful death lawsuit related to the use of Tesla’s Autopilot driver-assistance system. This incident dates back to March 2018, and the settlement was reached without proceeding to a trial.
Background of the Incident:
The tragic accident occurred on March 23, 2018, when Walter Huang’s Tesla Model X crashed into a highway barrier in Mountain View, California. A comprehensive investigation led by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) suggested that both Autopilot and driver distraction were contributing factors in the incident.
Settlement Details:
Details of the settlement, such as the compensation amount, have been kept confidential at the request of both parties involved. The agreement must still be approved by a judge during an upcoming hearing on April 11th. California Department of Transportation, also named as a defendant in the case, will have the opportunity to object if they see fit.
Previous Subpoena Controversy:
Initially, Tesla planned to subpoena Apple to determine whether Huang was using his phone to play games at the time of the crash, potentially suggesting inattentiveness. Although investigators reportedly found a game app open on Huang’s phone during their investigation, they could not definitively confirm active use at the time of the crash. Tesla sought to implicate Apple in the case by suggesting potential distraction from the game app. However, Apple resisted the subpoena.
Implications of the Settlement:
This settlement brings an end to a potential landmark case concerning Tesla’s Autopilot technology. While questions about driver inattention and the precise role of Autopilot in the crash remain unanswered, this settlement marks a significant resolution for all parties involved.
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