Tesla drivers in the San Francisco Bay Area are relying heavily on the company’s Full Self-Driving system, with some pushing the software far beyond its intended boundaries, according to a report by the
San Francisco Chronicle.
Full-time Uber driver Rohullah Hashimi relies on Tesla’s advanced driver assistance for about 95 percent of his driving around San Francisco. While Hashimi stays attentive when carrying passengers, he admitted to using the automated feature to eat, scroll through his phone, and take occasional short naps when driving off the clock.
Unlike fully autonomous robotaxi services like Waymo, Tesla’s driver assistance operates as a Level 2 system under regulatory standards. California law requires a human driver to remain fully responsible and attentive at all times, making activities like texting or sleeping illegal while behind the wheel.
Tesla has updated its cabin monitoring systems to track driver attention through dashboard cameras rather than requiring physical steering wheel pressure. This change has led some motorists to feel comfortable engaging in distractions like applying makeup or holding conversations. The software also includes aggressive driving profiles, including a “Mad Max” mode alongside standard, chill, and grandparent settings.
Safety experts expressed concern over driver complacency, noting that vehicle automation creates a conflict between true safety and driver convenience. While proponents argue the technology reduces accidents caused by human error, critical questions remain about accountability and regulatory compliance as hands-free driving becomes more common on public roads.
