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Autonomous and semi-autonomous driver suites are making it easier than ever to sit back and relax on a drive. However, the suites aren’t infallible; bugs and issues can cause suites like the Tesla self-driving system to work improperly. Tragically, some issues can pose a threat to drivers.

A driver using a Tesla self-driving system nearly drove into a moving train in dense fog

According to NBC News, Craig Doty II was driving his Tesla in Full Self-Driving Mode (FSD) as he approached a railroad crossing. He was traveling at 60 mph in the 55-mph zone and using the Tesla’s semi-autonomous driving system.

However, as the Tesla Model 3 approached the crossing, it failed to slow. Still, this wasn’t a vacant railroad crossing. As Doty closed in with the crossing, he noticed through the fog that he was on a collision course with a train. Fortunately, Doty took control of the car, applying the brakes and spinning off the road to the right.

Doty wasn’t injured. However, police issued the Tesla driver a $175 fine for “failure to control” his vehicle. That, and the impact with the railroad crossing equipment totaled the Model 3. 

Still, Doty took responsibility for the nearly deadly event. “I was the only one in the car. I was the only car in the accident. So yes, it was my fault, it had to be.” However, he also expressed anger with the Tesla self-driving technology. “I feel it was more that the damn car didn’t recognize the train,” Doty told NBC News. 

Of course, the conditions were suboptimal for autopilot. Many commenters slammed the Tesla driver for being “inattentive behind the wheel.” One viewer on NBC’s Instagram post responded with a wry “Or just drive your damn car?”

They’re not wrong, either. While Full Self-Driving Mode and other semi-autonomous driving suites have advanced, they’re not a suitable replacement for driver attentiveness. Even with FSD and other semi-autonomous systems in place, drivers have to pay attention to other vehicles, road conditions, and potential hazards. After all, your life could depend on it.

Check out a video of the near-miss event below!

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman is a MotorBiscuit Staff Writer, an admitted petrolhead, and an avid motorcyclist. Erik covers Tesla daily, including the Model Y and Cybertruck. Erik also covers Toyota, often discussing the Tundra, Tacoma, RAV4, 4Runner, and Camry. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and Humvees. Erik is a United States Marine Corps combat veteran, former water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Texas at Austin.