Full Breakdown
Tesla Driver Cited for Drowsy Driving While Using Autopilot on Interstate 5
6/25/2026, 5:35:40 AM
Driver Stopped After Appearing Asleep at 78 mph
At about 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, a Tesla driver traveling on I-5 at 78 mph was stopped after a trooper saw her head flopping, a sign of possible sleep. She was cited for second-degree negligent driving and for exceeding the 60-mph limit. No injuries occurred.
Background: Tesla’s Driver-Assistance Features and Legal Obligations
Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) assist with steering and speed but require the driver to stay alert. The “Mad Max” mode, reintroduced last October, lets the car exceed speed limits and change lanes automatically; it is under NHTSA investigation. Washington law requires a licensed driver to supervise any autonomous operation.
Key Figures and Agencies
Trooper Rick Johnson was the Washington State Patrol spokesperson; Trooper Jake Lilley observed the vehicle. The patrol conducted the stop. Tesla, Inc. makes the car. NHTSA is investigating “Mad Max” mode. Reporter David Zipper described its capabilities.
Data on Drowsy Driving in the United States
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 91,000 police-recorded crashes involving drowsy drivers in the latest year, causing about 50,000 injuries and nearly 800 deaths. Officials say the true toll is likely higher because fatigue is hard to detect after collisions.
Official Statements & Responses
Washington State Patrol reiterated that driver-assistance features do not replace attentive driving and that a vigilant driver is required by law. Tesla described “Mad Max” mode as delivering “incredible pace” while remaining “super smooth.” NHTSA confirmed its investigation of the mode’s safety.
Criticism & Opposition
Safety experts warn that aggressive autonomous modes may lead drivers to over-rely on technology, raising risk. The NHTSA probe reflects concerns that rapid feature rollout could outpace regulatory oversight.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on location—one cites South 272nd Street in Federal Way, another northbound I-5 near Kent. Reported fines are $300 and $500. Trooper identification varies: Johnson is quoted as spokesperson, Lilley as the observing officer. The driver’s self-reported possible sleep leaves her condition unverified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The scary thing is that the trooper noticed the driver was asleep!!” — Rick Johnson, Washington State Patrol spokesperson
- “He observed the driver’s head moving back and forth [in a way] that someone who was attentive wouldn’t have made, with the head flopping back and forth.” — Rick Johnson, Washington State Patrol spokesperson
- “She said that it was possible she was asleep.” — Rick Johnson, Washington State Patrol spokesperson
- “Humans generally don’t self-report,” — Rick Johnson, Washington State Patrol spokesperson
- “roll through stop signs and blast past other vehicles on the road” — David Zipper, Fast Company reporter
- “through traffic at an incredible pace, all while still being super smooth. It drives your car like a sports car. If you are running late, this is the mode for you.” — Tesla spokesperson
What’s Next
The NHTSA investigation of “Mad Max” mode remains ongoing. Washington State Patrol continues to remind drivers that supervision is required when using driver-assistance features and may issue citations for violations.
