Story perspectives

Tesla Rejects $60M Settlement, Faces $243M Verdict Appeal

8/27/2025

34 7

Summary

Story summary

Tesla declined a $60 million settlement in a lawsuit related to a 2019 crash involving its Autopilot Model S.
The incident resulted in the death of Naibel Benavides Leon and injuries to Dillon Angulo.
A jury found Tesla liable for 33% of compensatory damages and all punitive damages, totaling $243 million.
Tesla intends to appeal, arguing the verdict threatens automotive safety and innovation.
This case highlights accountability issues in self-driving technology.

1 of 1

Story summary

Tesla declined a $60 million settlement in a lawsuit related to a 2019 crash involving its Autopilot Model S.
The incident resulted in the death of Naibel Benavides Leon and injuries to Dillon Angulo.
A jury found Tesla liable for 33% of compensatory damages and all punitive damages, totaling $243 million.
Tesla intends to appeal, arguing the verdict threatens automotive safety and innovation.
This case highlights accountability issues in self-driving technology.