A tragic crash in Texas has raised serious questions about Tesla’s Cybertruck. Michael Sheehan, 47, died when his 2024 Cybertruck went off the road, slammed into a concrete culvert, and erupted into flames so intense that investigators said it destroyed his bones. The accident happened just three months after he bought the truck. While officials are still looking into the full circumstances, Sheehan’s family has filed a lawsuit claiming that the Cybertruck’s design flaws trapped him inside and ultimately cost him his life.
The Fatal Crash(es)
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Investigations claim Sheehan was driving southwest on Nita Way when his Cybertruck left the road, hit a culvert, and burst into flames, reaching an estimated 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit. He never made it out. Investigators have not confirmed whether he was speeding or wearing a seatbelt, but his family believes the crash would have been survivable in another vehicle. They argue that no other truck would have gone up in flames so violently or been so difficult to escape. The lawsuit also notes that Sheehan had been at the Barn Whiskey Bar before the crash, and claims he was overserved alcohol. Still, the main focus of the case is the Cybertruck itself. And Sheehan’s death wasn’t the only. Last year, three students in California also died when their Cybertruck caught fire after crashing into a tree.
Alleged Cybertruck Safety Flaws
Sheehan’s family argues the Cybertruck is dangerous in more ways than one. The lawsuit claims the battery pack uses chemistry that is “hyper-volatile” and prone to catching fire in a crash – something Tesla could have avoided with safer alternatives. It also points to design issues, such as poorly placed vents in the battery, external handles that don’t work reliably, and electronic doors that become useless once power is cut. Adding to the concern, the family says Tesla never gave Sheehan proper training when he took delivery of his truck. Normally, that might not matter much. But in a vehicle as unconventional as the Cybertruck, knowing how to use backup door releases or emergency systems can be the difference between life and death.
Other Cybertruck Safety Concerns
On the surface, the Cybertruck looks unstoppable. Stainless steel body panels, sharp lines, and a curb weight topping 6,800 pounds. But cool looks and near-bulletproof panels don’t always equal safety. If anything, it raises bigger questions: what happens when a truck this heavy and sharp crashes into something, or more importantly, someone? That’s not to mention its lack of traditional crumple zones, inconsistent Autopilot, and its long list of electronic gremlins and recalls. And while Tesla proudly touts its five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, many argue that it doesn’t match up with reality. Michael Sheehan’s family is seeking more than $1 million in compensation.
About the author
Marnus Moolman
News Editor, Autoblog