A Tesla Model 3 owner recently experienced a stark lesson in the importance of heeding safety warnings when their electric vehicle became submerged in floodwaters near Mono City, California. Despite clear road signs cautioning against hazardous conditions, the owner decided to continue driving with Tesla’s Full Self-Driving Beta activated.
Thanks to the YouTube channel Wham Baam Teslacam, we have access to footage documenting the incident. The driver, who goes by the name Ryan, shared with Wham Baam Teslacam that they were traveling at a speed of 60 mph on a highway just outside Mono City while the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system was engaged.
In the video, as the driver encounters a flood warning sign, it becomes evident that neither the car nor its owner responded to this cautionary signal, even though water is clearly visible on both sides of the road.
Even as more water became clearly visible on the road past the sign, there was no effort to reduce speed before reaching the water. The car continued forward without apparent concern, creating a wake as it moved ahead. Initially, everything seemed to be going smoothly.
However, when a dry pavement section altered the car’s traction, it suddenly veered to the left side of the road with significant force. Unfortunately, the driver was unable to regain control before the vehicle entered a deeper puddle, eventually coming to rest on the roadside shoulder, partially submerged.
Submerging a vehicle in water for extended periods typically results in significant damage, although the exact extent remains uncertain. Following this incident, Ryan indicated an intention to pursue legal action against Tesla, although the prospects for success appear unlikely.
It’s important to understand that as a user of Full Self-Driving Beta, you carry the responsibility of being ready to take control of the vehicle whenever the software is active. When the car failed to recognize the warning sign on the road, the driver became solely responsible. This incident underscores the fact that while Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technologies can be valuable tools on the road, they have limitations and capabilities that differ.
It’s crucial to remember that, despite its name, Full Self-Driving (FSD) does not convert your Tesla into an autonomous vehicle. As a general rule, it’s advisable to exercise caution and avoid driving through standing water at high speeds, whether a human or an automation system is in control.