Two U.S. safety regulatory bodies are investigating Ford over the alleged use of its self-driving technology in a fatal crash in Texas. 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have opened probes into the crash that left one driver dead on Feb. 24. This is the first time that either regulator is investigating Ford’s driver-assisted technology. 

According to the NTSB, the crash occurred Feb. 24 in San Antonio. A Ford Mustang Mach-E, reportedly using Ford’s BlueCruise automation feature, hit the rear of a Honda CR-V parked on Interstate Highway 10. 

The Honda driver, 56-year-old Jeffrey Allen Johnson, was injured in the crash and was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Ford reported the incident to the NHTSA immediately and has reportedly been cooperating with both agencies during their investigations. 

Automakers have touted the safety of self-driving technology since it was introduced, but regulators like the two federal agencies have had doubts. The NHTSA has opened dozens of investigations into Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system after it was found to be in use during deadly crashes. 

Many drivers also don’t trust the safety claims made by automakers. According to one study, nearly half of U.S. consumers hold serious reservations about purchasing or riding in automated vehicles. 

• Vaughn Cockayne can be reached at vcockayne@washingtontimes.com.