🚗NHTSA Investigates Waymo Robotaxi Crash in Santa Monica
Waymo's Self-Driving Car Hit a Kid, Now the Feds Are Looking Into It
TL;DR
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating a crash involving a Waymo self-driving car in Santa Monica. A nine-year-old girl was struck, but only sustained minor injuries. The investigation highlights the scrutiny autonomous vehicle companies face.
NHTSA has launched an investigation into a January incident where a Waymo robotaxi hit a nine-year-old girl in Santa Monica, California. The car braked and slowed to six miles per hour before hitting the child who was crossing the street. This case is crucial for autonomous vehicle developers as it underscores the regulatory scrutiny these technologies face. NHTSA sent 12 questions to Waymo on March 23, with an initial deadline of May 8 that was extended multiple times. The investigation involves both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board, which typically takes around a year to complete.
Key Points
Waymo received NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation questions on March 23, with an initial May 8 deadline.
Waymo asked for and received extensions to respond to the investigation questions, most recently in a July 8 letter.
The crash occurred on January 23 when a nine-year-old girl was struck by a Waymo robotaxi traveling at 17 mph.
NHTSA's investigation involves both NHTSA and the National Transportation Safety Board, which typically takes about a year to complete.
Waymo's responses to some questions were redacted due to 'confidential business information', posted on Friday morning.
Why It Matters
This case highlights the scrutiny autonomous vehicle companies face from regulators. If you're developing or testing self-driving technology, this investigation is a reminder of the regulatory hurdles and public safety concerns that come with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does this matter?
This case highlights the scrutiny autonomous vehicle companies face from regulators. If you're developing or testing self-driving technology, this investigation is a reminder of the regulatory hurdles and public safety concerns that come with it.
What happened?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating a crash involving a Waymo self-driving car in Santa Monica. A nine-year-old girl was struck, but only sustained minor injuries. The investigation highlights the scrutiny autonomous vehicle companies face.
Comments
Be the first to comment
Enjoyed this article?
Get it daily. 7am. Free. Reads in 5 minutes.
Join 3,305 builders reading daily.