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Driver hits police motorcycle, blames Tesla's autopilot system

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 A Tesla driver who rear-ended a motorcycle officer said he was using the luxury car's autopilot function, according to a Phoenix police spokesman.

The crash happened last Tuesday afternoon on the northbound I-17 off-ramp at Utopia Road. 

Phoenix police say both the motorcycle officer and the Tesla came to a stop for a red light, then the Tesla moved forward and struck the police motorcycle.

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The officer was able to hop off the motorcycle prior to impact. There were no damages or injuries.

The Tesla driver claimed the auto-drive function was engaged, however, the investigating officer has no way to prove or disprove this, according to Phoenix police.

Tesla's autopilot system is described as several driver-assistance features, which involve more driver control than so-called self-driving vehicles.

Tesla's spokeswoman said the company has not heard from the driver or the police about the incident.