In a recent study conducted by insurance agency LendingTree, Tesla drivers were ranked as the worst in terms of reported incidents in 2024. Despite Teslas being known for their crashworthiness, the number of accidents, DUIs, and speeding cases reported by Tesla drivers to insurers saw a substantial increase compared to the previous year. This data sheds light on the driving behavior of Tesla owners and highlights some concerning trends.
According to the study, Tesla drivers had 36.94 reported incidents per 1,000 drivers in 2024, up from 31.93 in 2023. This places them at the top of the list for worst drivers in the U.S. Ram drivers followed closely behind, ranking second overall but topping the list for worst drivers in most states. On the other end of the spectrum, Mercury, Pontiac, and Cadillac drivers had the fewest reported incidents, likely due to fewer cars of these brands on the roads today.
The study also revealed some interesting statistics regarding DUI rates among different car brands. Pontiac drivers had the highest DUI rate, followed by BMW and Tesla. It’s important to note that these findings do not reflect the structural safety of the vehicles themselves. Tesla’s Model Y, for example, has consistently earned top safety ratings from the IIHS since its debut.
One factor that may contribute to the high number of incidents involving Tesla vehicles is the misuse of driver assistance systems like Autopilot. Several studies have indicated that Tesla drivers often do not use these systems as intended, leading to accidents and other incidents on the road. CEO Elon Musk’s push to remove federal crash reporting requirements for automated systems could further complicate the regulation of vehicle safety.
While advanced driver assistance systems can enhance safety on the road, they should not be seen as a substitute for attentive and responsible driving. Until these systems are officially certified for higher levels of autonomy, drivers must remain vigilant and avoid complacency behind the wheel. The findings of this study serve as a reminder of the importance of safe driving practices, regardless of the vehicle being driven. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system has recently been certified as a Level 2 system, which means that it requires full driver supervision at all times. This certification highlights the importance of driver oversight while using advanced driver assistance systems, such as Tesla’s FSD.
Over the past decade, automakers have made significant strides in improving vehicle safety through better design and crashworthiness. While these advancements have undoubtedly made cars safer, the focus has now shifted towards making drivers safer as well. With the rise of autonomous driving technologies, it is crucial for drivers to understand their role in supervising these systems and remaining attentive behind the wheel.
Tesla’s FSD system offers a range of advanced features, such as lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and automatic lane changes. However, despite these capabilities, the system is not yet capable of fully autonomous driving. As a Level 2 system, Tesla’s FSD requires the driver to remain engaged and ready to take control of the vehicle at any moment.
This certification serves as a reminder that while autonomous driving technologies hold great promise for improving road safety and reducing accidents, they are not without limitations. Drivers must remain vigilant and prepared to intervene if the system encounters a situation it cannot handle. By understanding the capabilities and limitations of advanced driver assistance systems like Tesla’s FSD, drivers can help ensure a safe and smooth transition towards fully autonomous vehicles in the future.
In conclusion, Tesla’s FSD certification as a Level 2 system underscores the importance of full driver supervision when using advanced driver assistance technologies. As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards autonomous driving, it is essential for drivers to stay informed, attentive, and ready to take control of their vehicles when needed. By working together with these systems, drivers can help pave the way towards a safer and more efficient future of transportation.