Tesla Full Self-Driving faces safety scrutiny and legal distinction concerns

Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software is facing scrutiny regarding its safety and the legal responsibilities of its users. While some drivers report using the system for up to 95% of their trips, the technology remains classified as a Level 2 driver-assistance system, meaning the human operator is legally responsible for the vehicle at all times.

Reports from Car and Driver highlighted significant safety concerns following a video of a Model 3 using FSD Beta in Oakland. The footage showed the vehicle making illegal lane changes, entering oncoming traffic lanes, and failing to navigate intersections correctly, often requiring immediate human intervention to avoid collisions or traffic violations.

Tesla's approach relies on a camera-based system and large-scale data collection to improve software, contrasting with competitors like Waymo, which utilizes Level 4 autonomy and more complex sensor suites. Despite the increasing reliance on the software for routine driving in urban and highway environments, the distinction between driver assistance and true autonomy remains a critical legal and safety boundary.