A Waymo driverless vehicle created a stir in Los Angeles after it entered a police checkpoint during an active incident, sparking questions about the safety of autonomous vehicles. The event occurred at approximately 03:40 on July 7, 2023, at the intersection of Broadway and First Street, near Times Mirror Square and the downtown federal courthouse. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, as confirmed by both Waymo and the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD).
The incident unfolded as police officers were restraining a suspect. Footage captured by bystanders shows the Waymo vehicle making an unexpected right turn, despite officers directing it to turn left. In light of the vehicle’s actions, police approached with weapons drawn, only to discover it was unmanned. The LAPD later clarified that the presence of the vehicle did not interfere with their operations, although the intersection was temporarily closed as a precaution.
Waymo has since issued a statement acknowledging the incident, noting the vehicle was stationary for over 15 seconds. A spokesperson emphasized, “Safety is our top priority at Waymo, both for those who choose to travel with us and for those with whom we share the streets.” The company expressed its commitment to using such events as learning opportunities to enhance the safety and functionality of its autonomous technology.
Despite the challenges faced, Waymo continues to expand its operations. Since launching its public service in November 2024, the company now offers driverless rides in Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, and Phoenix, with plans to extend services to cities including Miami, Orlando, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, San Diego, Las Vegas, and Detroit.
The recent incident is not the first to raise eyebrows regarding Waymo’s self-driving technology. Earlier this year, the company announced that its vehicles had traveled over 160 million kilometers without any fatalities. Yet, the brand has been involved in several notable incidents that have drawn public attention. In June, a user allegedly sent 50 Waymo vehicles down a dead-end street in San Francisco as a prank, creating a viral moment.
Additionally, in another Los Angeles incident, five Waymo vehicles were burned by protesters opposing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In September, a self-driving car made an illegal turn during a DUI checkpoint operation in San Bruno, further compounding the company’s publicity challenges.
As Waymo ventures forward with plans to offer highway rides, it remains to be seen how these incidents will impact public trust in driverless technology. The company continues to assert its focus on safety, but the recent police checkpoint incident highlights the complexities and ongoing challenges of integrating autonomous vehicles into everyday traffic situations.
