Why did Lyft and Uber drivers protest Waymo taxis in San Francisco?

Drivers protested Waymo taxis to demand greater regulatory oversight for autonomous vehicles due to safety concerns and what they perceive as unfair competition.

What safety issues have been raised about Waymo taxis in San Francisco?

Concerns include Waymo vehicles killing pets, blocking traffic during power outages, and difficulties in enforcing traffic laws without human drivers.

What is the California Public Utilities Commission doing about autonomous vehicles?

The commission is refining and expanding policies around autonomous robotaxis as the industry grows and is considering further regulations.

Home / Technology / SF Drivers Demand Rules for Self-Driving Taxis

SF Drivers Demand Rules for Self-Driving Taxis

11 Jan

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Summary

Lyft and Uber drivers protested Waymo taxis in San Francisco.
Concerns raised include pets being killed and traffic blockages.
State regulators are considering new oversight for autonomous vehicles.

SF Drivers Demand Rules for Self-Driving Taxis

Human drivers for Lyft and Uber demonstrated in San Francisco against Waymo's autonomous taxis, calling for increased state regulatory oversight. The protest occurred as the California Public Utilities Commission met to discuss new regulations for self-driving vehicles.

Protesters highlighted safety concerns, including Waymo cars allegedly killing a pet cat in October and causing significant traffic jams during a December power outage. They argued that autonomous vehicles should be held to the same standards as human drivers.

Waymo, owned by Alphabet, stated its commitment to being the world's most trusted driver. However, recent incidents, such as Waymos blocking streets and an inability for police to ticket a vehicle without a human driver, have intensified calls for stricter safety measures.