Waymo's Safety Challenges: Robotaxi Recall and Investigations

Waymo is recalling 3,800 robotaxis in the U.S. due to potential risks on flooded roads, following an April incident. The company is enhancing its software safeguards for better safety. Meanwhile, federal investigations are underway after separate incidents involving its self-driving vehicles in California and Texas.

On Tuesday, Waymo announced it is recalling approximately 3,800 robotaxis across the United States due to a safety concern. The recall comes after an April 20 incident where one of its autonomous vehicles navigated a flooded lane in San Antonio at a high speed.

Waymo confirmed the vehicle was unoccupied and no injuries occurred, but the situation prompted a review of scenarios involving high-speed travel on flooded roads. The company is now implementing additional software safeguards and restricting access to areas prone to flash flooding.

In parallel, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation after a Waymo vehicle hit a child in Santa Monica, California. Additionally, the National Transportation Safety Board is examining a separate January incident where Waymo vehicles bypassed a stopped school bus in Texas.