Tesla is being sued for $10 million after a test drive allegedly went wrong, resulting in the driver crashing a Model Y. Alemzewd Lawgalet, a 59-year-old employee of the U.S. Federal Reserve Board, claims that Tesla employees had set the vehicle into its quickest accelerating drive mode, known as "Insane" mode, without informing her. This mode allows the vehicle to go from 0-60 miles per hour in 3.3 seconds.
Lawgalet had raised concerns about never having driven an electric car before, but was assured by Tesla staff that electric vehicles (EVs) "operated the same as a gas vehicle." However, she was not informed about the regenerative braking feature, which caused her to become scared and lose control of the vehicle while driving on Interstate 395. She ultimately crashed the Model Y into a nearby salon, resulting in serious and permanent bodily injuries.
View Price on AmazonAs a result of the crash, Lawgalet is seeking $10 million or more in compensatory damages, as well as an additional $350,000 in punitive damages for what the complaint describes as Tesla's "recklessness," "willful and wanton conduct," and "conscious disregard for the health and safety of others." A spokesperson for Tesla did not provide comment on the matter.
The incident highlights the importance of proper training and education for drivers who are new to electric vehicles. It also raises questions about the safety features and warnings provided by Tesla to its customers. The lawsuit is currently pending in federal court, and it remains to be seen how it will be resolved.
Source: roadandtrack.com
