The recent death of Angela Chao, a billionaire CEO, in a Tesla accident has sparked concerns about the safety of electric cars, particularly Tesla vehicles. Let’s delve into the details of the incident and the broader safety implications.
Angela Chao, aged 50, met with a tragic fate while leaving a party at a private ranch in Texas on February 11th. Initially it was assumed as an accident. Later, it was discovered that she had difficulty staying alive when her Tesla car moved backward into a lake. She lost her life after mistakenly putting her Tesla in reverse and the vehicle ended up in a pond.
Reports indicate that she attempted a three-point turn in her Tesla Model X SUV but mistakenly shifted into reverse instead of drive. This error led to her vehicle plunging into a pond on the ranch premises. Despite efforts from friends and emergency responders, Chao could not be rescued in time, and she was found unresponsive inside the submerged car.
This incident has shed light on potential safety issues with Tesla vehicles. According to reports, Chao had previously experienced confusion with the gearshift of her Tesla, a concern echoed by other Tesla users who reported similar issues. Complaints have been filed regarding the gearshift design, with some users accidentally shifting gears or experiencing unexpected shifts between drive and reverse.
Moreover, Tesla’s autopilot feature has come under scrutiny, with reports of “phantom braking” incidents, where the car autonomously applies brakes even in traffic, leading to accidents. These safety concerns raise questions about the reliability of Tesla’s technology and the effectiveness of its user interface design.
In light of this tragedy, it’s essential for Tesla and other automakers to address these safety concerns promptly. Clearer design interfaces and robust safety features could help prevent similar incidents in the future. Additionally, educating users about emergency procedures, such as escaping a submerged vehicle, is crucial for enhancing overall safety.
For drivers facing a similar situation of a submerged vehicle, quick action is vital. Experts suggest that individuals have just a minute to exit a submerged car safely. If trapped, it’s essential to remove the seatbelt, roll down the window, and escape as soon as possible. Waiting for water pressure inside and outside the car to equalize before opening the door or window can facilitate a safer exit.
