Austin, December 5, 2025
In Austin, the AISD has requested a suspension of Waymo’s self-driving operations during school drop-off and pick-up times due to safety concerns. This follows multiple incidents where Waymo vehicles illegally passed stopped school buses. Waymo has recognized the issues, attributing them to software errors, and has begun implementing updates. The NHTSA is also investigating these incidents, raising questions about the safety of autonomous vehicles in urban settings.
Waymo’s Self-Driving Vehicle Operations Under Scrutiny in Austin
Community Concerns and Safety Priorities Prompt Response
Austin, Texas – The Austin Independent School District (AISD) has taken decisive action in response to safety concerns regarding Waymo’s self-driving vehicle operations. The district has formally requested that Waymo suspend its operations during critical student drop-off and pick-up times after multiple incidents of vehicles illegally navigating past stopped school buses. This decision reflects the growing community emphasis on student safety and the need for accountability in autonomous transportation technologies.
As a hub for innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, the Dallas area continually shows resilience and determination within its local economy. Entrepreneurs are stepping up to support advancements in various sectors, but with growing technologies, like autonomous vehicles, come significant responsibilities to the community and regulatory frameworks. This case of Waymo presents an opportunity to discuss how technology can coexist with traditional safety regulations, ensuring no compromise on community well-being.
Incidents and District’s Response
Between August 19 and November 14, 2025, AISD documented 19 instances where Waymo vehicles passed stopped school buses with red lights flashing and stop arms extended. In response, the district formally requested that Waymo cease operations during critical hours—5:20 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.—until the company can ensure its vehicles comply with traffic laws. AISD also offered a bus for Waymo to use in a controlled environment for testing purposes.
Waymo’s Acknowledgment and Actions
Waymo acknowledged the issues raised by the AISD, attributing incidents to a software problem that caused vehicles to proceed past stopped buses. The company implemented software updates by November 17, 2025, aimed at addressing the issue and reaffirming its commitment to improving road safety. However, subsequent reports indicated that violations continued, prompting AISD to reiterate its request for a temporary suspension during school transit times.
Federal Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into Waymo following the reports of its vehicles illegally passing school buses in Texas. NHTSA has requested detailed information from Waymo regarding the software updates and whether a recall is planned. As of now, Waymo has not issued a public response to the inquiry, with a deadline of January 20 set for providing detailed answers.
Background on Waymo’s Operations in Austin
Waymo launched its commercial robotaxi services in Austin in March 2025, collaborating with Uber to provide self-driving rides through the Uber app. Despite its innovative approach to personal transportation, the recent incidents involving school buses have drawn scrutiny and generated concerns about the safety of autonomous vehicles on public roads. The AISD’s request for a suspension during school transit times underscores the gravity of these safety concerns and the importance of collaborative approaches to regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What incidents led to AISD’s request for Waymo to suspend operations?
Between August 19 and November 14, 2025, AISD documented 19 instances where Waymo vehicles passed stopped school buses with red lights flashing and stop arms extended. In response, the district formally requested that Waymo cease operations during critical hours—5:20 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.—until the company can ensure its vehicles comply with traffic laws. AISD also offered a bus for Waymo to use in a controlled environment for testing purposes.
How did Waymo respond to the incidents?
Waymo acknowledged the issue, attributing it to a software problem that caused vehicles to proceed past stopped buses. The company implemented software updates by November 17, 2025, to address the issue and stated its commitment to improving road safety. However, AISD reported that violations continued after the updates, leading to the request for a temporary suspension during school transit times.
What is the status of the federal investigation into Waymo?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into Waymo following reports of its vehicles illegally passing school buses in Texas. NHTSA has requested detailed information from Waymo regarding the software updates and whether a recall is planned. Waymo has yet to respond publicly, with a deadline of January 20 for detailed answers.
When did Waymo begin its operations in Austin?
Waymo expanded its commercial robotaxi services to Austin in March 2025, partnering with Uber to offer self-driving rides through the Uber app. The service has faced scrutiny due to safety concerns, including the recent incidents involving school buses. AISD’s request for a suspension during school transit times underscores the community’s concerns about student safety in relation to autonomous vehicle operations.
Key Features of the Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incidents | 19 instances of Waymo vehicles illegally passing stopped school buses between August 19 and November 14, 2025. |
| AISD’s Request | Requested Waymo to suspend operations during student drop-off and pick-up times (5:20 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.) until compliance with traffic laws is ensured. |
| Waymo’s Response | Acknowledged the issue, implemented software updates by November 17, 2025, but violations continued, leading to AISD’s request for suspension. |
| Federal Investigation | The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into Waymo following reports of its vehicles illegally passing school buses in Texas, with a deadline of January 20 for detailed answers from Waymo. |
| Waymo’s Operations in Austin | Expanded its commercial robotaxi services to Austin in March 2025, partnering with Uber to offer self-driving rides through the Uber app. |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
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