Tesla drivers run Autopilot where it's not intended -- with deadly consequences

The string of Autopilot crashes reveals the consequences of allowing a rapidly evolving technology to operate on the nation's roadways without significant government oversight, experts say. While NHTSA has several ongoing investigations into the company and specific crashes, critics argue the agency's approach is too reactive and has allowed a flawed technology to put Tesla drivers -- and those around them -- at risk. The approach contrasts with federal regulation of planes and railroads, where crashes involving new technology or equipment -- such as recurring issues with Boeing's 737 Max -- have resulted in sweeping action by agencies or Congress to ground planes or mandate new safety systems. Unlike planes, which are certified for airworthiness through a process called "type certification," passenger car models are not prescreened, but are subject to a set of regulations called Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, which manufacturers face the burden to meet.