Dangerous design choices trapped Piedmont teens in Cybertruck crash, lawsuit claims

Families of two college students filed a lawsuit against Tesla, claiming the Cybertruck’s door design trapped their children during a crash that killed three students on November 27, 2024. The Nelsons allege that the electronic door handles failed, preventing escape, while the Tsukaharas assert their daughter was conscious but could not flee due to electrical malfunctions. The complaint details that Jack Nelson died from smoke inhalation, while Krysta Tsukahara experienced severe trauma as she was trapped in flames. The families argue that Tesla's design decisions are responsible for their children’s deaths, emphasizing that the backup mechanical door releases are concealed and impractical in emergencies. They point out that safety standards mandate accessible interior releases for passengers.

The crash resulted from the truck colliding with a concrete wall, with the intoxicated driver also perishing in the incident. This lawsuit raises critical questions about vehicle safety design and manufacturer accountability. The families seek to hold Tesla responsible for what they describe as "dangerous design choices.