A Tesla Model S driver survived a fall off a cliff with merely a scratch on the arm
Driver credited the Tesla’s safety
Tesla vehicles have historically performed very well in crash safety testing
A Tesla Model S driver in Puerto Rico walked away with only a few scratches after tumbling down a cliff. The car, on the other hand, was thoroughly destroyed. The news was reported first on Twitter.
Model S P90D accident in Puerto Rico. Car fell through a cliff. Driver walked out alive with only an arm scratch. Happened yesterday. Thanks @elonmusk for your innovative safety features! pic.twitter.com/J9otsbWNI0
— Elias Sobrino Najul (@eliassob) November 25, 2021
Few details have filtered through since the November 25 accident. Although the car is evidently destroyed, there doesn’t appear to be any fire damage which means the batteries were likely well protected. It is also quite surprising that the driver suffered so little injuries given the extent of the damage.
Tesla vehicles have historically performed very well in crash safety testing. The Model initially received a 5.4 Star rating from the NHTSA when the car was released in 2013, the best score ever recorded by a passenger car at the time. The Tesla Model S received the lowest probably of injury score in 2018 ahead of the Model S and Model X while the Model Y received a 5-star rating earlier this year.
IIHS testing hasn’t been as conclusive for the Model S. The car failed to score a Top Safety Pick or Top Safety Pick+ rating in 2017 testing because of only an Acceptable rating in the Small Overall Front Test. That said, the Model S did receive top marks for roof strength which would be a particularly important variable when going over a cliff.
In any case, this lucky Model S driver seemed to think that the Model S saved his life as he took the time to thank Elon Musk for the vehicle’s safety features.
