I'm not sure how this story is relevant, it's well known that human drivers are more dangerous than self driving car. This particular case, while tragic, is not unique.

But this isn't a self driving car - it's automated cruise control. It's not going to let you snapchat and drive safely. You still need to be aware, and rhetoric that presents it as a solution to distracted driving is dangerous, leading to situations exactly like this one.

Sure it's still safer; that's not the point.