Home / Disasters and Accidents / Waymo Robotaxi Strikes Child Near Santa Monica School
Waymo Robotaxi Strikes Child Near Santa Monica School
29 Jan
Summary
- Waymo robotaxi collided with a child pedestrian near an elementary school.
- The incident occurred during school drop-off hours with other children present.
- NHTSA is investigating Waymo's operation and response to the collision.
On Friday, a Waymo self-driving vehicle was involved in an incident where it struck a child pedestrian near an elementary school in Santa Monica, California. Waymo confirmed the event on Wednesday, reporting that they had voluntarily contacted the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the same day the incident occurred. The NHTSA has since stated its intention to investigate the matter.
According to Waymo, the child "suddenly entered the roadway" from behind a tall SUV. The company stated its vehicle's technology detected the child and braked hard, reducing speed significantly before contact. The child sustained minor injuries and was able to walk to the sidewalk after the incident. Waymo contacted emergency services and awaited law enforcement at the scene.
