A Waymo self-driving car was involved in a multi-vehicle crash in London early Wednesday, leaving four people injured. The incident occurred on the A13 in east London at approximately 2 a.m., when the Waymo vehicle was struck from behind by another car traveling at 93 mph in a 50 mph zone.
Details of the Crash
The Waymo car, which was being tested on London roads, had a human test driver behind the wheel at the time of the collision. According to a Waymo spokeswoman, the vehicle was being driven in manual mode when the test driver attempted to change lanes. The approaching vehicle, which was speeding, swerved into an adjacent lane, collided with another car, and then made contact with the Waymo vehicle.
The London Ambulance Service confirmed that they treated four people at the scene for injuries. The extent of those injuries has not been disclosed.
Waymo's Response
A Waymo spokeswoman told The Sun: 'The Waymo vehicle involved in this collision was being driven by a test driver in manual mode at the time. While the test driver was changing lanes, the Waymo vehicle was approached from behind by another vehicle travelling at 93mph in a 50mph zone. That vehicle swerved into an adjacent lane, collided with another vehicle and then made contact with the Waymo vehicle. We’re grateful for the quick response from emergency officials and wish those who were injured a full and fast recovery.'
Context of the Trial
Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., is conducting trials in London to evaluate its autonomous driving technology. The company aims to eventually launch a driverless taxi service in the city. During these tests, human drivers are present to take control in emergencies. Metro has contacted Waymo for further comment but has not yet received a response.
The crash highlights the challenges of introducing autonomous vehicles into complex urban environments, especially when interacting with reckless human drivers.
