A Tesla driver in Illinois was arrested after their vehicle, allegedly on Autopilot, rear-ended a South Barrington police cruiser while the driver slept. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about driver attention with semi-autonomous systems. No officers were seriously injured.
The crash occurred last week in the South Barrington area of Illinois, involving a Tesla that slammed into the back of a stationary South Barrington police squad car. According to police reports, the driver claimed they had fallen asleep and that the vehicle's Autopilot feature was in control at the time of the collision.
Tesla's Autopilot is a Level 2 driver-assistance system, designed for highways and requiring drivers to remain fully attentive with hands on the wheel, ready to intervene. The system includes driver-monitoring features that should alert users to drowsiness via visual and audible warnings, potentially disengaging if ignored. However, these safeguards can sometimes be bypassed, such as by obstructing the cabin camera or using weights on the steering wheel.
Two officers were in the squad car during the incident but sustained no serious injuries, as confirmed by village officials. Images shared by authorities showed damage to the police vehicle, though the Tesla itself was not photographed, leaving its model and year unknown.
The Barrington Hills Police Department, which responded to the scene, arrested the driver and charged them with several traffic violations. South Barrington authorities emphasized driver responsibility in a public statement. "The South Barrington Police Department would like to remind all motorists that while the use of vehicle automation systems such as autopilot is not illegal, drivers are still required to remain alert and attentive at all times," the department posted on Facebook. Deputy Police Chief Adam Puralewski added, "Technology continues to evolve and can enhance safety when used properly. However, it’s important to remember that drivers are still responsible for the safe operation of their vehicles at all times."
The event underscores legal expectations that vehicle occupants remain accountable for accidents, regardless of automation involvement.