The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating an incident in which a 2021 Tesla Model S Plaid sedan caught fire in Haverford, Pennsylvania, while its owner was at the wheel. According to news reports, the vehicle owner became trapped inside as the blaze broke out but managed to escape. We have launched an investigation into this potentially lethal fault.
Ongoing Model S Plaid Investigations
The car’s owner told CNBC that he noticed smoke coming from the back of his 2021 Model S Plaid and tried to unlock and open the doors but had to force his way out of the vehicle as the locks seemed to malfunction. After he left the car, it began to move on its own, and the flames engulfed it, he said. Officials said two firefighters worked on the scene for just over three hours to extinguish the fire.
NHTSA officials told CNBC that they are aware of the Tesla vehicle fire in Pennsylvania and are in touch with the relevant agencies and the manufacturer to get more information about the incident. A spokesperson for NHTSA said if data or investigations show a defect or an inherent safety risk, the agency “will take action as appropriate to protect the public.”
NBC News recently reported that electric vehicle battery fires could take over 25,000 gallons of water to be fully extinguished. By comparison, a typical car fire involving an internal combustion engine can be put out with around 300 gallons of water.
Auto Product Liability Issues
We are relieved that NHTSA will look into this potentially serious issue with the 2021 Tesla Model S Plaid sedan. The driver couldn’t escape the car when it caught fire because the locks malfunctioned. These issues could result in severe burn injuries, smoke inhalation injuries, or even death. It is indeed fortunate that this driver was able to escape without significant injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured due to an auto defect, you can file an auto product liability lawsuit seeking compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses. In such cases, it is important to preserve the vehicle unaltered so an expert can thoroughly examine it for evidence of defects, malfunctions, and design flaws. An experienced auto defect attorney can advise you regarding your legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/tesla-model-s-plaid-fire-nhtsa-investigate/
