The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) learned of multiple previously unknown autonomous taxi incidents in a recent safety investigation, as the industry faces surveillance is increasing.
Reuters NHTSA reported last week that it was aware of nine additional incidents involving Waymo automated taxis in its latest investigation, which was opened earlier this month in response to multiple reports involving the operator.
The investigation was prompted by 22 reports of Waymo robotaxis engaging in driving behavior that “potentially violated traffic safety laws” or exhibited “unexpected behavior,” including 17 crashes.
In a letter to Waymo, NHTSA revealed it is aware of nine additional similar incidents.
NHTSA said some of the incidents in question “involved collisions with clearly visible objects that should be avoided by competent drivers.”
“Reports include collisions with fixed and semi-fixed objects such as gates and chains, collisions with parked vehicles, and cases in which [vehicle] NHTSA said there appeared to be failure to follow traffic safety control devices or rules.
As part of the safety investigation, Waymo has been asked to answer a series of questions about the incidents and provide videos for all of them by June 11.
The investigation is the first stage before NHTSA can order a recall due to a perceived safety risk, as some incidents are said to have the potential to “increase the risk of crashes, property damage and hurt”.
It was also noted that some incidents occurred “in close proximity to other road users, including pedestrians”.
This isn’t the first time Waymo has been in trouble this year, as in February it recalled 444 self-driving cars after two consecutive minor crashes in Arizona.
At the time, the company cited a software bug that could cause the vehicles to incorrectly predict the movements of the towed vehicle.
The investigation follows other investigations into similar robotaxi companies in the United States, particularly General Motors’ Cruise division, which has been the subject of major criticism following a scandal. Collisions with prominent pedestrians last year.
Cruise was sidelined after its parent company announced a $US1 billion ($1.5 billion) investment. cut its budget this early year.
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