Waymo Robotaxi Hits Child Near School, Prompting Investigation
A Waymo robotaxi struck a child pedestrian near an elementary school in Santa Monica, California, prompting an investigation by federal authorities. The incident occurred on a Friday during school drop-off hours, raising concerns about safety in such locations.
Incident Overview
On the day of the accident, Waymo reported that the child unexpectedly entered the roadway from behind a tall SUV. The self-driving vehicle’s technology detected the child in time to brake hard, reducing its speed from about 17 mph to under 6 mph before contact occurred. Following the collision, the child managed to walk to the sidewalk, and Waymo promptly called 911.
Government Response
Waymo confirmed that they voluntarily notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about the incident. An investigation has been initiated to assess whether the robotaxi operated with sufficient caution near the school. This includes examining adherence to posted speed limits and Waymo’s response post-incident.
Safety Measures and Commitments
- Waymo stated that there was no safety operator in the vehicle, as the robotaxi operates fully autonomously in the Los Angeles area.
- As per Waymo’s blog, “this event demonstrates the critical value of our safety systems.”
- The company reaffirms its commitment to enhancing road safety in all operating areas.
Previous Incidents and Safety Statistics
Waymo has faced scrutiny due to other high-profile incidents as it broadens its services, including challenges navigating construction zones and issues during a power outage in San Francisco. In October, a robotaxi was involved in the death of a neighborhood cat, igniting public concern regarding autonomous vehicle safety.
Despite these challenges, Waymo highlights its Safety Impact report, which boasts impressive safety statistics. By March 2025, Waymo’s technology had recorded:
| Type of Incident | Reduction Compared to Human Drivers |
|---|---|
| Serious injuries or worse | 88% |
| Injury-causing crashes | 78% |
| Injuries to pedestrians | 93% |
| Injuries to cyclists | 81% |
| Injuries to motorcyclists | 86% |
Waymo’s analysis indicates that a fully attentive human driver would have likely made contact with the pedestrian at approximately 14 mph in the same scenario. This underlines the complexities and challenges surrounding the deployment of autonomous driving technology.
