🚨 Tesla Ordered to Pay $243M $USDC Over Fatal Autopilot Crash — Jury Finds Company Partially Liable
Tesla has been hit with a $243 million verdict after a federal jury in Miami ruled the company 33% responsible for a deadly 2019 crash involving its Autopilot system.
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🧾 The Case at a Glance:
Crash Location: Florida Keys
Vehicle: Tesla Model S
Driver: George McGee
Casualties:
Deceased: Naibel Benavides Leon
Injured: Dillon Angulo (her boyfriend)
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🧑⚖️ Jury Decision:
Tesla's Liability: 33%
Driver’s Liability: 67%
Total Damages:
$42.5M – Compensatory
$200M – Punitive
Total: $243 Million
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⚖️ What Happened?
The crash occurred when McGee’s Model S failed to stop at a T-junction and slammed into a parked Chevrolet Tahoe. McGee admitted he had activated Autopilot but was distracted — he dropped his phone while on a call and was looking for it.
> “I expected Autopilot to assist me if I made a mistake… it failed me.” – George McGee, driver
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🛡️ Tesla’s Defense:
Tesla argued:
Autopilot was functioning properly
McGee was speeding and distracted
Drivers are required to stay alert and in control
Owner's manuals and on-screen warnings clearly state this
Data confirmed McGee pressed the accelerator, overriding cruise control, and was driving 17 mph over the limit before the crash.
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📣 Reaction:
> “This verdict is justice. Tesla and Musk must be held accountable for overselling Autopilot.”
– Brett Schreiber, victims’ attorney
Tesla responded firmly, calling the verdict “wrong” and plans to appeal, stating legal errors and trial irregularities.
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⚡️ Why It Matters:
This is one of the largest legal setbacks for Tesla regarding Autopilot. Unlike past favorable rulings, this case sends a strong message: promoting semi-autonomous tech without ensuring its responsible use can lead to real consequences.
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