Waymo Robotaxis Face Deepening Federal Scrutiny Over School Bus Safety

U.S. safety regulators are escalating their probe into Waymo’s autonomous vehicles. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has demanded more data from the company. This follows new reports that its robotaxis illegally passed stopped school buses multiple times.

The request comes just two months after the agency opened a formal investigation. According to Reuters, the focus is on how Waymo’s self-driving system interacts with school bus stop arms.

School District Reports Detail Dozens of Violations

The Austin Independent School District has documented 19 separate incidents this school year. In each case, a Waymo vehicle allegedly passed a bus with its stop sign extended. This is a clear traffic violation designed to protect children.

District officials sent a letter to Waymo demanding action. They asked the company to halt operations during key student pickup and drop-off hours. The district stated the software fixes deployed so far are not sufficient.

Notably, at least five reported violations occurred after a November software update. Waymo had implemented this update to address the initial concerns. The continued issues prompted the district’s strong response.

Broader Implications for Autonomous Vehicle Deployment

This situation tests public trust in a rapidly evolving technology. Regulators are walking a fine line between innovation and proven safety. The NHTSA’s detailed information request signals a serious review of Waymo’s operational safety.

The outcome could influence regulations for the entire industry. Other companies deploying robotaxis are likely watching closely. How Waymo resolves this specific challenge may set a precedent.

For now, the company maintains its vehicles are safer than human drivers. Waymo cites internal data showing a major reduction in injury-related crashes. However, specific failure scenarios around school buses remain a significant public concern.

The deepening federal scrutiny of Waymo robotaxis highlights a critical hurdle for autonomous technology: performing flawlessly in high-stakes, routine scenarios. How the company and regulators address these school bus safety reports will be closely watched by parents and policymakers alike.

Info at your fingertips

What did NHTSA ask Waymo for?

Federal regulators sent a letter requesting detailed information on Waymo’s self-driving system. They want to understand its design and operational decision-making, especially regarding school buses.

How many times did Waymo pass school buses illegally?

The Austin School District reported 19 specific incidents this school year. This includes violations that happened even after Waymo issued a software update intended to fix the problem.

What has Waymo said about the incidents?

The company states safety is its top priority. Waymo says it has made software updates and claims its vehicles are involved in far fewer injury crashes than human-driven cars.

What did the school district demand?

Austin ISD asked Waymo to cease robotaxi operations during morning and afternoon school commute hours. They want a halt until more robust fixes are guaranteed.

Was there a previous investigation?

Yes. NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened a probe in October. It began after reviewing footage of a Waymo vehicle passing a stopped school bus in Atlanta.