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Background Behind the Lawsuit
Tesla is facing fresh legal trouble after a tragic crash in Wisconsin claimed the lives of five people inside a 2016 Model S. Families of two passengers have filed a lawsuit against the automaker, alleging negligent design of Tesla’s electronic door handles, which they claim trapped the occupants inside the burning vehicle.
The incident occurred in 2024 when the vehicle struck a tree and caught fire. A nearby resident heard screams for several minutes after the crash but was unable to assist due to the rapidly spreading fire. The plaintiffs argue that Tesla’s flush electronic door handles failed to open when the vehicle lost power, leaving passengers unable to escape.
Why Tesla’s Door Handle Design Is Under Fire
Tesla’s Model S features retractable door handles that rely on electronic signals to open. Although a mechanical override exists for the front doors, the rear mechanical release is hidden underneath the seat carpet, a fact noted in the manual but unfamiliar to most passengers.
The lawsuit claims Tesla knew about repeated consumer complaints and failed to redesign the system. It cites Tesla’s own admission in 2025 that they were working on a combined mechanical-electronic button, indicating awareness of safety concerns.
The plaintiffs are also citing battery fire suppression deficiencies, noting that Tesla included fire-resistant materials in later models but not in the 2016 Model S involved in this crash.
What’s Next for Tesla Owners
With this lawsuit, and a separate pending suit involving a Cybertruck crash, pressure is mounting for Tesla to rethink its safety systems, especially door access in emergencies.
How Tesla Owners Can Take Back Control
While this class action lawsuit has been initiated, thousands of Tesla owners may be affected by the same alleged door handle and safety design defects, with many expressing frustration over Tesla’s responses. These types of issues often lead to escalated legal action, underscoring the importance of protecting consumer rights.
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