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Uber Rider Accuses His Tesla Driver of Sleeping at the Wheel

The passenger says the Tesla traveled on Southern California freeways with Full Self-Driving engaged while the driver appeared to be asleep.

An Uber passenger says his late-night Tesla ride through Orange County turned into a nightmare when the driver appeared to fall asleep behind the wheel while Full Self-Driving mode was engaged. Cellphone video obtained by KTLA appears to show the driver’s head repeatedly bobbing forward as his hands remain off the steering wheel during the 13-mile trip from Yorba Linda to Santa Ana on July 6. At one point, the passenger can be heard asking, “You good, man?” but receives no response. The rider said the Tesla was operating in Full Self-Driving mode as it traveled on the 91, 57, and 5 freeways before the trip ended safely. After he registered a complaint, the passenger said Uber apologized for the experience but told him the ride did not qualify for a refund despite his safety concerns. Tesla’s guidance says drivers using Full Self-Driving must remain alert and ready to take over at any time. KTLA noted that several other videos have surfaced showing Tesla drivers who appeared to be asleep while behind the wheel.