Family Sues Tesla and alleges Autopilot Technology caused Son’s Death

Benjamin Maldonado and Adriana Garcia have filed suit against Tesla and Romeo Yalung after a Tesla’s autopilot feature engaged crashed into the family’s pickup truck and killed their then 15-year-old son, Jovani Maldonado.

The crash was captured on dashcam video. The six-second clip shows the Tesla was traveling at 69mph, briefly sped up to 70mph, then slowed just seconds before the impact. The force of the collision caused the pickup truck to flip. Jovani was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene.

The lawsuit makes claims against Tesla and the driver for strict product liability, negligent product liability, motor vehicle negligence, negligent infliction of emotional distress, and wrongful death. As noted in the lawsuit, “Tesla conferring to their customers a false sense of security that Autopilot has autonomous functionality or is otherwise safe in all traffic conditions, misleadingly promotes the functionality, safety, and autonomy of Autopilot.”

When someone is injured or dies as a result of an accident, financial recovery may be available. Such recovery is particularly important when permanent, life-changing injuries are incurred. It is important to contact someone who understands the intricacies of the injured party’s right to recover.

If you or someone you know has been injured in an accident, contact an attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling 713-396-3964 or toll-free at 1-800-594-4884. Abraham Watkins offers a free consultation to anyone wishing to pursue a claim for such injuries or fatalities.