Waymo robotaxi accident prompts regulatory scrutiny
A driverless car operated by Waymo was involved in a collision with a cyclist on Tuesday in San Francisco, resulting in minor injuries and prompting a comprehensive review by the state’s automotive regulatory authority.
On Tuesday, Waymo, the autonomous driving unit of Alphabet, stated via email that it had contacted the police and was also reaching out to relevant authorities regarding the incident.
The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is reviewing the incident and has no further comment at this time, as it said by email on Wednesday.
Waymo reported that its vehicle had come to a complete stop at a four-way intersection. As the Waymo car began to proceed after the truck’s turn, the incident occurred. The company confirmed that its vehicle had fully stopped at a four-way intersection. However, as the Waymo car resumed its course following the truck’s turn, the incident unfolded.
A spokesperson from the San Francisco Fire Department confirmed via email that a 911 call had been placed, reporting the collision. Fortunately, the cyclist did not require hospitalization. The San Francisco Police Department is currently investigating the incident.
The San Francisco Police Department said it was investigating the cause of the collision.
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Safety risk
Waymo has embarked on an ambitious expansion of its driverless service in Los Angeles, currently conducting rigorous testing of rides and extending invitations exclusively for new riders.
But robot car companies have run into resistance from some lawmakers and citizens who fear the vehicles are as yet unproven and pose a safety risk.
Last month, GM’s Cruise self-driving car unit disclosed investigations by both the U.S. Justice Department and Securities and Exchange Commission following an incident involving one of its robotaxis. Tragically, the vehicle struck a pedestrian and dragged her 20 feet, prompting heightened scrutiny and concern.
Last year, over two dozen unions collectively urged U.S. auto safety regulators to initiate an industry-wide investigation into driverless vehicles. They characterized these vehicles as “unsafe and untenable in their current form,” citing a concerning frequency of crash incidents.
