by Tragic Tesla Cybertruck Accident
The family of Michael Sheehan is accusing electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla and a local bar of the tragic death of the 47-year-old driver, who died in August of last year during an accident involving the vehicle. They have filed a wrongful death lawsuit, claiming that both parties are responsible.
Event Details
According to the lawsuit filed in Harris County District Court, Sheehan had owned the Cybertruck for only 102 days at the time of the accident. After visiting the Barn Whiskey Bar in Cypress, Texas, he was involved in an accident approximately seven miles from the bar. The vehicle veered off the road, hit a ditch, and burst into flames.
The Bar’s Role in the Tragedy
The family claims that the bar over-served Sheehan alcohol, despite his obvious intoxication. The lawsuit states that it was apparent to the staff that he was so drunk that he posed a danger to himself and others.
Allegations Against Tesla
The family also accuses Tesla of manufacturing a dangerous vehicle. They claim that the chemical composition of the battery cells is extremely unstable and prone to thermal runaway, which led to the rapid spread of the fire. In their opinion, the manufacturer could have used safer technologies that would have provided more time for evacuation after the accident.
Other Vehicle Deficiencies
Among other issues mentioned in the lawsuit are the design of the battery modules, the location of ventilation ports, and the hard-to-reach door handles, which complicate evacuation in emergency situations.
Compensation Demands
The family is seeking damages in excess of $1 million, believing that with better vehicle safety and more responsible service at the bar, Sheehan could have survived. This comes against the backdrop of the NHTSA awarding the Cybertruck its highest safety rating – five stars.
This case could have significant implications for the electric vehicle industry, particularly regarding battery system safety standards and manufacturer liability. At the same time, it raises questions about the role of establishments that sell alcohol in preventing similar tragedies.
