Waymo Robotaxis Require First Responder Assistance

Waymo's robotaxis have repeatedly required assistance from firefighters and police to move them out of traffic, even in emergency situations. In one instance, a Waymo vehicle became stuck on a freeway shoulder and needed a police officer to drive it to safety. Despite having a remote assistance team, Waymo has called 911 on at least six occasions to have first responders move its vehicles. This reliance on public services has drawn criticism from city officials, who argue that autonomous vehicles are becoming a burden on emergency responders. Waymo states its roadside assistance team handles most issues, but acknowledges first responders are sometimes needed.