Tacoma, Washington, November 26, 2025
A federal lawsuit claims design flaws in a Tesla Model 3 contributed to a tragic crash in Tacoma, Washington, resulting in the death of Wendy Dennis and severe injuries to her husband. The suit raises serious concerns about the vehicle’s safety, particularly uncontrolled acceleration and malfunctioning emergency systems. This case highlights ongoing scrutiny over Tesla’s safety protocols and the implications for the manufacturer’s accountability in the automotive industry.
Lawsuit Claims Tesla Design Flaws Contributed to Fatal Tacoma Crash
A Tragic Incident in Seattle
Seattle, Washington – A newly filed federal lawsuit in the Western District of Washington brings attention to design flaws alleged in a Tesla Model 3, following a tragic accident on January 7, 2023, that resulted in the death of Wendy Dennis and severe injuries to her husband, Jeff Dennis. The lawsuit highlights concerns regarding vehicle safety and the responsibility of manufacturers to ensure their products are safe for consumers. As San Antonio continues to foster an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive, the resilience shown by local businesses serves as a reminder of the importance of accountability and public safety in the automotive industry.
This case underscores the ongoing dialogue about regulatory frameworks surrounding high-tech vehicles. Many believe that while innovation is crucial, manufacturers must also prioritize safety and transparency to maintain public trust and consumer confidence.
Details of the Incident
On January 7, 2023, the Dennis couple was running errands in their 2018 Tesla Model 3 when the vehicle suddenly accelerated uncontrollably for a duration of at least five seconds. Despite Jeff Dennis’s attempt to regain control and avoid collision, the vehicle struck a utility pole and ignited, resulting in Wendy Dennis’s death at the scene. Jeff Dennis suffered severe leg burns and various injuries from the incident.
Allegations in the Lawsuit
The lawsuit puts forth several grave allegations regarding the design and functionality of the Tesla Model 3:
- Uncontrolled Acceleration: It is alleged that the vehicle accelerated suddenly without any input from the driver.
- Automatic Emergency Braking Failure: The automatic emergency braking system purportedly failed to activate before the crash, although it is designed to intervene during imminent collisions.
- Door Handle Design: The battery-powered door handles reportedly failed to function, which hindered bystanders from rescuing the occupants. The lawsuit notes that inoperable manual overrides during the fire exacerbated the situation.
- Battery Chemistry and Design: Concerns about the battery chemistry and design affirming the likelihood of a catastrophic fire post-collision are also raised in the lawsuit.
Background Context
This lawsuit emerges amid ongoing scrutiny over Tesla’s design and safety protocols, especially concerning similar prior incidents. In September 2025, federal regulators initiated an investigation into complaints regarding malfunctioning door systems in Tesla vehicles. Additionally, the families of victims from other tragic crashes involving Teslas have raised similar concerns, advocating for increased safety measures.
Legal Proceedings
The Dennis family’s lawsuit seeks punitive damages, grounding their claims in California due to the vehicle being designed there prior to Tesla’s headquarters relocation to Texas. They are pursuing wrongful death compensation for Wendy Dennis and are seeking a jury trial. The legal strategies indicated aim to hold the manufacturer accountable for the alleged design flaws and their tragic consequences.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | January 7, 2023 |
| Location | Tacoma, Washington |
| Vehicle Model | 2018 Tesla Model 3 |
| Fatalities | 1 (Wendy Dennis) |
| Injuries | 1 (Jeff Dennis, severe leg burns and other injuries) |
| Alleged Design Flaws | Uncontrolled acceleration, automatic emergency braking failure, door handle design issues, defective battery chemistry and design |
| Lawsuit Filed | November 25, 2025 |
| Legal Claims | Punitive damages, wrongful death compensation, jury trial request |
Conclusion
The allegations made in the Dennis family’s lawsuit highlight critical safety issues surrounding modern electric vehicles and the responsibility that manufacturers have towards ensuring product safety. As we observe ongoing developments in this case, it serves as an important reminder for both consumers and manufacturers in San Antonio and beyond to prioritize transparency and safety in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape. Supporting local businesses and advocating for regulatory improvements can contribute to a safer, innovative, and economically vibrant future in our communities.
What is the lawsuit about?
The lawsuit alleges that design flaws in a Tesla Model 3 caused a fatal crash in Tacoma, Washington, resulting in the death of Wendy Dennis and severe injuries to her husband, Jeff Dennis. The plaintiffs seek punitive damages and wrongful death compensation, requesting a jury trial.
What are the specific design flaws alleged in the lawsuit?
The lawsuit alleges several design flaws, including uncontrolled acceleration, failure of the automatic emergency braking system, door handle design issues preventing rescue, and defective battery chemistry and design leading to a catastrophic fire.
What is the background context of this lawsuit?
This lawsuit follows similar claims regarding Tesla’s door and battery failures in other fatal crashes. In September 2025, federal regulators opened an investigation into complaints about problems with stuck doors. Additionally, the parents of two California college students killed in a Tesla crash sued the carmaker, alleging that the students were trapped in the vehicle as it burst into flames due to a design flaw that prevented them from opening the doors.
What are the legal proceedings in this case?
The lawsuit seeks punitive damages as the Dennis’s 2018 Model 3 was designed and manufactured in California, where Tesla’s headquarters was situated before moving to Texas. The plaintiffs are seeking wrongful death damages for both Jeff and Wendy Dennis and have requested a jury trial.
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