There’s been a major update in the Miami case involving Tesla’s Autopilot driver assist system.
A federal jury found Tesla partly responsible for a deadly 2019 crash and that a staggering $240 million in damages is to be awarded to the victim’s family. This decision is making waves across both the auto industry and the legal world.
The crash involved a distracted driver who hit and killed a young woman as she was stargazing. While the Tesla driver admitted to being distracted by trying to retrieve a phone he dropped, the jury determined that Tesla’s Autopilot technology, which the driver trusted, also failed.
Our own Miguel Custodio was featured in multiple outlets, including the Associated Press, Univision and Miami’s Local 10 News about this groundbreaking verdict.
“This will open the floodgates,” Custodio said. “It will embolden a lot of people to come to court.”
Miguel is also featured in Business Insider saying that this verdict has put the automated driving industry “on notice.” He said, “If their tech is not 1,000% safe or if the marketing is misleading in any way, there is serious legal and financial exposure. Everyone welcomes new technology, but not if it is at the cost of human lives.”
Why It Matters
As we’ve discussed in a previous newsletter, Tesla’s Autopilot marketing has led many drivers to overestimate its capabilities.
This decision may pave the way for other victims of self-driving tech failures to seek justice. Until now, many of these cases have been settled quietly or dismissed before trial. It’s a big step forward in large corporations taking accountability.
E. Coli Contamination in Lake Tahoe
Warning to those soaking up the final month of summer at Lake Tahoe… think twice before jumping into the water.
If your August plans include paddling, boating, or lounging by the lake, be cautious of your location. The U.S. Forest Service recently announced that water samples taken near Lake Tahoe’s South Shore tested high for E. coli contamination.
The affected area is near the Camp Richardson resort in South Lake Tahoe and beachgoers, boaters, and swimmers are being advised to stay out of the water there until further notice.
According to the U.S. Forest Service’s Tahoe Basin Management Unit, the contamination is linked to a sewage leak which is currently under repair.
E. coli is a type of bacteria that can cause serious illness, especially in young children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), E. coli exposure through recreational water can lead to stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, sepsis, and other illnesses.
Take Precautions
Popular nearby spots like Pope Beach and Baldwin Beach are not affected. Still, officials are reminding visitors to take precautions:
- Avoid swallowing lake water
- Wash hands after water contact
- Stay clear of posted contaminated areas
“Summer travelers should always stay informed about environmental advisories wherever they’re headed. Your health and your family’s safety depend on it!” says Vineet Dubey of CD Law. “You can check the National Park Service registry and their website and they’ll let you know what parts of the lake are clear and what parts of the lake have high levels of E. coli. You definitely don’t want to end up sick on your trip to beautiful Lake Tahoe! ”
Always check for water quality and safety updates before diving into any destination. Wishing you safe travels!
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November 24, 2025