Event Highlights Commitment to Transparency and Road Safety

Waymo continues to prioritize road safety for all, ensuring transparent communication regarding incidents involving their autonomous vehicles. On January 23, in Santa Monica, California, a significant event occurred when one of their self-driving cars came into contact with a young pedestrian.

Incident Overview in Santa Monica

The incident took place when a pedestrian unexpectedly entered the roadway from behind a parked SUV, moving directly into the path of the Waymo vehicle. The autonomous technology detected the pedestrian immediately as they emerged from behind the vehicle.

Emergency Response and Vehicle Action

• The Waymo Driver reacted promptly, reducing the car’s speed from approximately 17 mph to under 6 mph.
• The pedestrian stood up after the incident and walked to the sidewalk.
• Emergency services were notified, and law enforcement arrived to manage the scene.

Commitment to Transparency and Safety

Following the incident, Waymo promptly reported the event to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The organization has signaled their intent to investigate, and Waymo has expressed willingness to fully cooperate.

Safety Benefits of Waymo Technology

This incident highlights the effectiveness of the Waymo Driver’s safety systems. According to peer-reviewed studies, a fully attentive human driver would likely have made contact with the pedestrian at about 14 mph in a similar scenario. The Waymo technology’s ability to lower impact speed demonstrates a significant safety advantage.

Conclusion

Waymo remains dedicated to enhancing road safety and maintains transparency in addressing incidents. Their mission is to advance technology to build trust and ensure the safety of riders and pedestrians alike.