Waymo Passenger Has Terrifying Near-Miss After Self-Driving Car Suddenly Swerves Into Oncoming Traffic

Waymo Passenger Captures Heart-Stopping Near-Miss in Self-Driving Taxi

A Waymo passenger recently shared a terrifying experience after a self-driving taxi made a sudden move into oncoming traffic, causing panic and fear of an imminent crash. The hair-raising incident took place in San Francisco on December 9, when Chris Riotta Rogers was seated in the back of a Waymo vehicle on Noe Street. The autonomous car unexpectedly pulled out onto the road, directly in the path of another approaching vehicle, putting both drivers at risk.

In a video recorded by Rogers from inside the self-driving car, viewers witness the heart-stopping moment when the Waymo veers out into traffic. The footage captures Rogers screaming in alarm as the sound of a horn blares from the other vehicle, swerving just in time to avoid a collision. Rogers can be heard expressing his shock and declaring that he will never opt for a self-driving ride again after this close call.

Describing the incident as his first-ever trip in a self-driving vehicle, Rogers emphasised that the right of way belonged to the other driver, leaving him feeling utterly helpless in the face of danger. Despite his realisation of the potential catastrophe that could have unfolded, Rogers expressed gratitude towards the quick reflexes of the human driver in the other car, which prevented a disastrous outcome.

The intensity of the situation and Rogers’ traumatic reaction underline the nerve-wracking experience of entrusting one’s safety to an autonomous vehicle for the first time. This incident adds to a series of alarming encounters involving Waymo’s self-driving cars, sparking concerns and prompting passengers to share their unsettling experiences on social media platforms.

Notably, another viral incident involved a tech entrepreneur, Mike Johns, who found himself stuck in a Waymo that kept circling in a parking lot, causing him to almost miss a flight. Frustrated and unable to resolve the situation promptly with Waymo support, Johns vowed to steer clear of self-driving taxis following the stressful ordeal. Such stories highlight the challenges and limitations of autonomous technology in real-world scenarios.

As reports of Waymo-related mishaps continue to surface, including complaints of disruptive noise before software updates were implemented, questions arise regarding the efficacy and safety of self-driving vehicles. The evolving landscape of autonomous technology underscores the importance of stringent safety measures and reliable protocols to ensure passenger well-being and prevent future near-misses.

People magazine reached out to Waymo for comments on the incident, seeking insights into safety protocols and measures to address concerns raised by passengers. With an increasing reliance on autonomous technology for transportation, incidents like these serve as a reminder of the imperative to prioritise safety and efficiency in self-driving systems.

In the realm of innovative transportation solutions, incidents like the one experienced by Chris Riotta Rogers shed light on the complexities and challenges of navigating autonomous vehicles in urban environments. As technology continues to advance, the need for robust safeguards and enhanced user experiences remains paramount to instill confidence in the future of self-driving technology.