Tesla Prevails in Second Autopilot Lawsuit, Strengthening Defense Against Liability Claims

Tesla prevailed in lawsuit over 2019 Autopilot accident that killed Model 3 owner Micah Lee. Jury found Tesla not at fault by 9-3 vote.

Lawsuit alleged Autopilot defects caused Model 3 to veer off highway at 65 mph and crash into tree, killing Lee. Tesla argued it wasn't liable and unsure if Autopilot was engaged.

Case is second Autopilot lawsuit Tesla has won. In April, Tesla won case brought by driver hurt when Tesla allegedly swerved onto curb.

Tesla accounts for over 70% of automated driver assist accidents logged by NHTSA but has avoided liability in two cases now.

Legal experts said first case could be bellwether; with second jury siding with Tesla, precedent seems to be forming in its favor.