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Waymo Self-Driving Car Stranded on Tracks: Passenger Jumps

1/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Waymo's self-driving car in Phoenix became stuck on light-rail tracks, prompting a passenger to jump out before an oncoming train.
The incident was captured on video, and nearby construction may have confused the vehicle's operating system.
Technology professor Andrew Maynard said the car made a poor decision, but driverless vehicles are safer due to fewer distractions.
Valley Metro said the incident caused no significant delays and operations resumed shortly after.

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Story summary

Waymo's self-driving car in Phoenix became stuck on light-rail tracks, prompting a passenger to jump out before an oncoming train.
The incident was captured on video, and nearby construction may have confused the vehicle's operating system.
Technology professor Andrew Maynard said the car made a poor decision, but driverless vehicles are safer due to fewer distractions.
Valley Metro said the incident caused no significant delays and operations resumed shortly after.