TO THE EDITOR:
Regarding "Tesla driver in fatal crash reported problems before with 'Autopilot' feature," autonews.com, Feb. 11: Since receiving my Tesla Model 3 in October 2018, I use Autopilot as much as possible. The system is very useful in relieving driver fatigue. However, I receive driver alerts many times whenever the system becomes confused by situations it has not previously encountered or by road conditions and markings it cannot safely interpret. Construction zones marked by cones and modified by barriers are definitely an area that causes alerts. Many times, I will turn the system off when entering these areas.
The technology is definitely not developed to the point to allow total driver distraction by playing computer games, reading newspapers or watching videos. Abusing a beta system such as Autopilot can only lead to ultimate disaster. Unfortunately, there are those people who will abuse the limits of technology to the detriment of those who embrace technology and wish to contribute to its growth by use and testing within defined limits.
I can only hope these instances of abuse will not promote restrictive policies that will add years to, or even possibly prevent, the further growth of Autopilot technology.
JD BURCH Norman, Okla.
