Waymo Addresses Incident of Robotaxi Striking Child
Waymo is addressing a recent incident involving one of its robotaxis striking a child in Santa Monica, California. The incident occurred when a 10-year-old girl suddenly entered the roadway, hidden by a large SUV. The Waymo vehicle attempted to brake quickly, reducing its speed from 17 mph to 6 mph before making contact with her.
Details of the Incident
As reported, the girl was able to walk away from the collision with minimal injuries. This incident raises questions and concerns about the safety of autonomous vehicles on public roads.
Waymo’s Response and Safety Measures
- The Waymo robotaxi activated its safety protocols upon detecting the child.
- The company emphasized that its technology can significantly reduce impact speed, showcasing the benefits of the Waymo Driver.
- In a human-driven scenario, the impact speed could have been around 14 mph, highlighting the effectiveness of the Waymo vehicle’s braking system.
Following the incident, Waymo emphasized its commitment to road safety and transparency. The company contacted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the same day to report the collision, and NHTSA plans to investigate the matter further.
Commitment to Road Safety
Waymo stated, “We are committed to improving road safety for our riders and all road users.” The company is taking steps to ensure that it learns from incidents to enhance safety measures for its technology.
As autonomous technology develops, the goal remains to reduce accidents and enhance pedestrian safety. Waymo’s actions illustrate an ongoing effort to refine its systems in real-world situations.
Conclusion
Incidents involving autonomous vehicles, such as the one in Santa Monica, continue to spur discussions about safety in this emerging technology. Waymo aims to lead the industry in establishing reliable and safe transportation solutions.
