Austin, January 16, 2026
Waymo’s autonomous vehicles have been reported to illegally pass stopped school buses in Austin, Texas, despite claims of software updates aimed at preventing such violations. The Austin Independent School District documented 24 incidents since the start of the school year, prompting a request for Waymo to halt operations during specific times when children are being picked up and dropped off. Concerns remain about the effectiveness of the updates, and federal investigation has been initiated to assess this ongoing safety issue.
Austin, Texas – Waymo’s Self-Driving Vehicles Continue to Violate School Bus Laws
Austin Independent School District (AISD) officials have reported that Waymo’s self-driving vehicles have continued to illegally pass stopped school buses, despite the company’s claims of implementing software updates to address the issue.
Since the beginning of the 2025-26 school year, AISD has documented 24 instances where Waymo vehicles passed school buses with their stop-arms extended and lights flashing. The most recent violation occurred on January 12, 2026. These incidents have raised significant safety concerns regarding the interaction between autonomous vehicles and school buses.
In response to these violations, AISD has requested that Waymo cease operations during school pickup and drop-off times, specifically between 5:20 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., until more comprehensive software updates are implemented to ensure compliance with traffic laws.
Waymo has acknowledged the issue and implemented software updates aimed at improving the vehicles’ response to stopped school buses. However, AISD officials have expressed concerns that these updates have not been effective in preventing the violations.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has also initiated an investigation into Waymo’s autonomous vehicles following reports of similar incidents in other cities, including Atlanta. The investigation focuses on the vehicles’ performance around stopped school buses and their adherence to traffic safety laws.
These ongoing violations highlight the challenges in ensuring the safety of autonomous vehicles, particularly in school zones where children are present. The situation underscores the need for continuous monitoring and refinement of self-driving technologies to prevent potential hazards.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the issue with Waymo’s self-driving vehicles in Austin?
Austin Independent School District (AISD) officials have reported that Waymo’s self-driving vehicles have continued to illegally pass stopped school buses, despite the company’s claims of implementing software updates to address the issue.
How many violations have been documented?
Since the beginning of the 2025-26 school year, AISD has documented 24 instances where Waymo vehicles passed school buses with their stop-arms extended and lights flashing. The most recent violation occurred on January 12, 2026.
What actions has AISD taken in response?
AISD has requested that Waymo cease operations during school pickup and drop-off times, specifically between 5:20 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., until more comprehensive software updates are implemented to ensure compliance with traffic laws.
Has Waymo responded to these concerns?
Waymo has acknowledged the issue and implemented software updates aimed at improving the vehicles’ response to stopped school buses. However, AISD officials have expressed concerns that these updates have not been effective in preventing the violations.
Is there any federal involvement in this matter?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation into Waymo’s autonomous vehicles following reports of similar incidents in other cities, including Atlanta. The investigation focuses on the vehicles’ performance around stopped school buses and their adherence to traffic safety laws.
Key Features of the Issue
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Violations | 24 instances since the beginning of the 2025-26 school year, with the most recent on January 12, 2026. |
| Requested Action by AISD | Cease operations during school pickup and drop-off times (5:20 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.) until software updates are implemented. |
| Waymo’s Response | Acknowledged the issue and implemented software updates; however, AISD officials express concerns about their effectiveness. |
| Federal Investigation | The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation into Waymo’s autonomous vehicles following similar incidents in other cities, including Atlanta. |
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