Story perspectives

Waymo's Self-Driving Car Passes Stopped School Bus; Investigation Launched

3/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

On January 12, 2026, a Waymo automated driving system vehicle in Austin, Texas, unoccupied, passed a stopped school bus after initially stopping and consulting remote assistance.
The remote guidance incorrectly advised that the bus was not active, enabling the vehicle to proceed.
Six vehicles ultimately passed the bus without incident.
The National Transportation Safety Board and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are investigating violations of Texas law.

History

Historical Context

The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act, enacted in 1966, established federal safety standards in response to a dramatic rise in motor vehicle fatalities, which had increased six-fold since 1925. This legislation led to the creation of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Recent incidents, like a Waymo vehicle misinterpreting a stopped school bus, underscore ongoing challenges in automated driving and regulatory compliance.

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Story summary

On January 12, 2026, a Waymo automated driving system vehicle in Austin, Texas, unoccupied, passed a stopped school bus after initially stopping and consulting remote assistance.
The remote guidance incorrectly advised that the bus was not active, enabling the vehicle to proceed.
Six vehicles ultimately passed the bus without incident.
The National Transportation Safety Board and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration are investigating violations of Texas law.

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