Tesla drivers can’t get away with autopilot in the Okanagan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
West Kelowna RCMP caught a driver who tried to do just that along Highway 97 this week, using their onboard technology to drive while reading in traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
An officer pulled over the Tesla SUV on Wednesday, July 15, and handed them tickets for driving without due care and attention and for driving with controls obstructed, according to a news release.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Regardless of the technology available in a vehicle, drivers are responsible for maintaining control and remaining attentive at all times,” Const. Ash Puri of West Kelowna RCMP said in the news release.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As technology advances, manufacturers like Tesla have been rolling out more advanced features that near self-driving capabilities. Despite those advances, it’s not legal in BC to rely on those systems without holding the wheel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Driver-assistance features are designed to assist drivers, not replace them. Taking your attention away from the road while a vehicle is in motion places everyone at risk and can have serious consequences,” Puri said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Drivers must be prepared to take control of the vehicle immediately, rather than allowing the car to take full control of the drive, according to West Kelowna RCMP.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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