A Tesla driver arrested for allegedly driving under the influence while using an automated driving system is among the issues examined in a new motoring news roundup from Detroit broadcaster Dave Spencer.
The incident took place in Vacaville, California, where police were alerted to a Tesla travelling through busy streets with its driver apparently asleep at the wheel. Officers stopped the vehicle near Elmira Road and Shasta Drive and arrested the unnamed man after finding evidence that he was allegedly under the influence of alcohol and marijuana.
Vacaville police said drivers using assistive technology must remain conscious, alert and sober. The warning underlines the continuing legal responsibility placed on motorists using systems such as Tesla Autopilot or Full Self-Driving, which are not substitutes for an attentive driver.
Predatory car loan legal action
The programme also covers action against Credit Acceptance Corporation, a major US lender to people with limited or damaged credit histories. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced on September 18 that the company had reached a $694 million multistate settlement over allegations involving unaffordable car loans and the sale of additional products without proper consumer understanding.
Under the agreement, eligible borrowers will receive cash restitution or debt relief, while some customers whose vehicles were repossessed could have debts cancelled. Michigan consumers are expected to receive about $70.3 million in debt forgiveness, with the settlement due to take effect on November 2, 2026.
The agreement also requires new warnings about the risks of default, restrictions on certain vehicle prices and measures intended to prevent dealers adding unwanted vehicle service contracts or guaranteed asset protection products to finance agreements.
Spencer’s bulletin places the Tesla arrest and the lending case within a wider examination of the legal and consumer risks emerging as vehicle technology and motor finance continue to evolve.
