Tesla Driver Tries the Old ‘I Wasn’t Driving’ Excuse to Get Out of Speeding Ticket

TechRadar and Carscoops framed the story around the driver’s “I wasn’t driving” defense, noting the reliance on Tesla’s FSD feature. WFLA emphasized that the video “shows” the driver making the excuse, while CBS News added a police reminder that Colorado drivers remain responsible for the conduct of self‑driving vehicles. Gizmodo described the claim as an “old excuse” used to evade speeding tickets. The coordinated coverage underscores the newsworthiness of the legal tension between autonomous‑vehicle technology and existing traffic‑law enforcement.

Colorado law, as referenced by CBS, holds the licensed operator accountable for any violation, regardless of whether an advanced driver‑assistance system is active. This principle reflects a broader national conversation about how statutes apply to vehicles equipped with Autopilot, FSD or similar features that can control speed and steering. As manufacturers continue to roll out higher levels of automation, regulators and courts are being asked to define the boundaries of driver liability, making each citation a potential precedent. The next steps likely involve a hearing on the speeding ticket to determine whether the driver’s reliance on FSD can mitigate responsibility.

Coverage may later include a response from Tesla regarding the driver’s use of the feature and any guidance the company provides to owners about legal obligations. Observers will also watch for any statements from Colorado law‑enforcement agencies about how they intend to enforce traffic laws on vehicles operating in autonomous modes, and whether additional policy guidance will be issued.