NTSB Releases Details of Two Tesla AutoPilot Crash Fatalities
One driver reported that on his way to work his Tesla X would veer toward the highway barrier that was ultimately the site of the fatal crash.
The Huang family is suing Tesla and the California Department of Transportation.
Photo via Pisqels.
A man involved in a fatal accident when his Tesla crashed into a barrier had previously told family and friends that the car's autopilot pilot had malfunctioned along the same area of highway, USA Today reports.
According tothe National Transportation Safety Board, Apple engineer Walter Huang's Tesla's autopilot had veered the vehicle toward a cement barrier on Highway 101 near Mountain View, Calif., once before his fatal March 23, 2018 accident.
Huang's iPhone data retrieved from the crash imply that he might have been using his phone before the accident. However, the source of the data transmissions can't be determined.
The Huang family is suing Tesla and the California Department of Transportation. The family is alleging they failed to maintain the highway.
On Feb. 25, the NTSB will hold a hearing on the Mountain View crash, where it will determine the cause and make safety recommendations.
The NTSB is also investigating a crash, which happened about a year later in Delray Beach, Fla. The accident killed driver Jeremy Banner.
More Fleet Forward
Earley, Mossing Named to NAFA's 2026 Class of Fellows
The honor recognizes five outstanding professionals whose leadership, service and contributions have made a significant impact on NAFA and the fleet management profession.
Read More →
Fleet Forward Conference Adds IIHS Crash Test Experience for 2026 Attendees
Attendees will witness a live crash test, tour the IIHS Vehicle Research Center, and experience advanced crash-avoidance technologies firsthand.
Read More →
Cameras, Safety and Insurance: From Reactive Claims to Real-time Prevention
Commercial auto remains one of the most challenging and costly lines of coverage for fleet operators and insurers alike. Learn more about how to effectively address these issues from Onur Aksan, Enterprise Business Development Executive, Geotab.
Read More →
Matt Dyer to Deliver Closing Keynote at Fleet Forward Conference
The Merchants Fleet CEO will discuss the changing expectations and strategic role of today’s fleet leaders.
Read More →
IIHS Brings Commercial Vehicle Safety Analysis to 2026 Fleet Forward Conference Stage
IIHS President David Harkey will share early findings from new testing of delivery vans, pickups, and work trucks — and what the data means for fleet safety decisions.
Read More →
Fleet Manager or Data Strategist? You’re Both
The job hasn’t changed, but the expectations have. Do you have a plan on how to use AI to thrive?
Read More →
Nominations Are Open for the 2026 Awards!
The Hall of Fame, Visionary, and Fleet Manager of the Year award nominations are officially live. Don't miss your chance to recognize someone deserving.
Read More →
Fleet Manager of the Year Winners Over the Years
The Edward J. Bobit Fleet Manager of the Year award honors commercial fleet managers whose leadership, innovation, and business acumen have advanced the profession.
Read More →
Vehicle Management Systems Introduces Virtual Fleet Manager
VMS recently launched an AI-first fleet platform that streamlines system design, organizes data, and supports decision-making.
Read More →
LightMetrics Launches Cloud AI Layer to Reduce False Driver Safety Alerts
New FP platform filters dashcam alerts before they reach fleet managers, aiming to cut false positives, improve trust, and streamline safety coaching.
Read More →