On November 27, 2024, a new kind of tragic crash took place in Piedmont, California, this time featuring a Tesla Cybertruck. Tragically, 19-year-old college student Krysta Tsukahara died in the crash. The unexpected occurrence took place while we were visiting family over Thanksgiving weekend. Soren Dixon was driving 90 miles per hour in a 25-mph zone when his car hit a tree. The crash caused an explosion that ensued fire, rending three of the four passengers dead and only one surviving.
As reported by InsideEVs, the Tesla Cybertruck was speeding at the time of the accident. On impact, the car exploded into flames, and suddenly the vehicle’s innovative design features—like its e-doors—electric doors—became a lethal liability. These doors, which are intended to provide a sleek appearance by being flush with the body of the car, can be disabled in the event of a fire. Once the power to the electric doors was cut, panic ensued. The passengers were still aboard the burning vehicle and had to get out fast.
While Krysta Tsukahara did not physically experience trauma from the automobile crash, she died of smoke inhalation and burns. Her family would copy her was alert following the crash. They claim she called for assistance, but the design of the vehicle kept her from escaping.
“She was alive after the crash. She called out for help. And she couldn’t get out.” – Carl and Noelle Tsukahara
The Tsukahara family has filed wrongful-death litigation in U.S. District Court against Soren Dixon’s estate. Edina parents fighting for justice after shocking and premature death of their daughter. They claim that the design flaws in the Tesla Cybertruck directly contributed to Krysta’s inability to escape during the fire.
His name is Soren Dixon and he was driving the car that crashed. Indeed, at least three drugs were reportedly in his system—alcohol, cocaine and amphetamines. This information raises questions about driver responsibility and safety measures in vehicles like the Tesla Cybertruck. Safety improvements In light of these concerns, we turn to the specific design elements that increased the likelihood that this tragic situation might occur.
Roger Dreyer, an attorney for the Tsukahara family, highlighted the inadequacies of the vehicle’s architecture.
“The design of this vehicle failed Krysta,” – Roger Dreyer
While the Tesla Cybertruck’s auto electric handles may not be a feature for safety-saving purposes, they are just as impressive. In times of crisis operation, like with this rule, this can be a deadly reality. Since then, the incident has spurred discussions about automotive safety regulations. Now they’re asking what it means when high-tech designs prioritize aesthetics over the safety of their passengers.
Even more troubling than the city’s official response has been the impact of this incident personally on the Tsukahara family. While highly unusual, it does highlight some key questions on vehicle safety and regulatory oversight. As investigations proceed, there are important implications for manufacturers and regulators alike about how safety measures should be integrated into vehicle design and manufacturing practices.