NHTSA Concludes 14-Month Probe into Waymo Self-Driving Car Collisions: What’s Next?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has concluded its 14-month investigation into a series of incidents involving self-driving vehicles operated by Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. The investigation was prompted by 22 incidents, including 17 collisions, involving 440 autonomous vehicles that reportedly exhibited unusual behavior near traffic control devices or disobeyed them altogether. Notably, no injuries were reported in any of these incidents.
The investigation had significant implications for Waymo, leading to a recall of 1,212 robotaxis in May. The company attributed the incidents to a software glitch and implemented a subsequent software update aimed at enhancing detection and avoidance of roadway barriers such as chains and gates.
In its decision to close the investigation, the NHTSA cited Waymo’s recalls and its analysis of available data. This includes a recall of 672 vehicles in 2024 after one of Waymo’s robotaxis collided with a wooden utility pole in Arizona.
A spokesperson for Waymo expressed satisfaction with the conclusion of the investigation, stating, “At Waymo, we are committed to prioritizing safety.”
The announcement comes at a time when Waymo is gradually expanding its services across the United States. In June, Waymo rides became available via the Uber app in Atlanta, following their introduction in Austin in March. The company also operates in Phoenix, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. In July, its robotaxis began testing in Philadelphia, and it recently commenced its second round of testing in New York City. Furthermore, Waymo secured a substantial $5.6 billion funding round in late 2024 to support its market expansion.
Despite these successes, opposition to autonomous vehicles is growing in certain parts of the US. Earlier this week, protests were held outside Boston City Hall to highlight potential risks associated with driverless vehicles ahead of a City Council committee meeting on autonomous vehicle operations, as reported by The Boston Globe.
