Are Robotaxis Safe on Our Streets?

Driverless cars are speeding onto America’s streets, but whether the public will trust robotaxis remains an open question. Nearly two-thirds of Americans said they would not want to ride in a driverless passenger vehicle if they had the opportunity, according to a Pew Research Center Survey. 

As technology continues to push boundaries, the idea of hopping into a driverless taxi has become a reality in certain cities. Companies like Waymo, Zoox, Cruise, and Tesla have launched autonomous taxi services, touting convenience, cost savings, and safety. But the question remains: Are robotaxis safe?

While robotaxis represent a significant advancement in transportation, their safety has sparked debates among experts, regulators, and the public. 

The Risks and Challenges of Robotaxis

Despite their safety promise, robotaxis are not without risks. Accidents involving autonomous vehicles have raised concerns about their reliability and readiness for widespread adoption.

Common risks of robotaxi crashes include: 

• System Failures: Software glitches or sensor malfunctions can result in dangerous misjudgments, such as failing to recognize a pedestrian or misinterpreting a traffic signal.
• Complex Traffic Scenarios: Robotaxis may struggle in unpredictable situations, such as construction zones, erratic human drivers, or areas with insufficient infrastructure.
• Hacking and Cybersecurity: Autonomous vehicles rely heavily on software and data connections, making them potential targets for hackers who could disrupt their operation.

Real Examples of Robotaxi Accidents

Cruise Robotaxi Accident

In October 2023, a robotaxi manufactured and operated by autonomous vehicle startup Cruise ran over a pedestrian in San Francisco. The vehicle did not detect the person was underneath the vehicle and then attempted to pull over, in turn dragging the victim 20 feet.

Cruise has admitted to filing a false report to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration regarding an accident where one of its robotaxis dragged a pedestrian in San Francisco.

According to the DOJ, the San Francisco-based company filed false documents to "impede, obstruct, or influence the investigation" of the 2023 crash that involved one of its robotaxis. Cruise has agreed to pay a $500,000 fine.

Waymo Robotaxi Accidents

In May 2024, a federal investigation was launched into crashes involving Waymo's self-driving vehicles after 22 Waymo accident reports about vehicles either crashing or doing something that may have violated traffic laws.

In the crashes, the vehicles hit stationary objects like gates, chains, or parked vehicles. Some of the incidents happened right after the Waymo driving system behaved unexpectedly near traffic signs and cones.

Zoox Vehicle Collisions

Amazon's self-driving robotaxi unit, Zoox, is being investigated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration after two Zoox vehicles braked suddenly and were rear-ended by motorcyclists.

Both crashes involved Toyota Highlander SUVs with autonomous driving technology. They happened during daytime hours, and the agency confirmed that each of the Amazon vehicles was operating in autonomous mode leading up to the crashes. 

In one crash a motorcyclist suffered minor injuries, and a Zoox driver reported minor injuries in the other, according to reports. 

Liability in Robotaxi Accidents

One of the biggest questions surrounding robotaxis is liability. When an accident occurs, who is responsible? Unlike traditional car accidents, where liability typically falls on one or more drivers, accidents involving robotaxis can involve multiple parties:

• The Vehicle Manufacturer: If a defect in the autonomous system or hardware contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held liable.
• The Software Developer: Errors in the programming or algorithms that control the vehicle might make the software provider responsible.
• The Robotaxi Operator: Companies operating the fleet may bear liability for failing to properly maintain or monitor their vehicles.
• Other Drivers or Pedestrians: In some cases, human error from a third party may still play a role.

Navigating the complexities of liability in a robotaxi accident requires legal expertise. An experienced personal injury attorney can help determine who is at fault and ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve.

The Regulatory Landscape

The deployment of robotaxis is still in its infancy, and regulations vary widely by location. Some cities have embraced autonomous vehicles, granting permits for commercial operations, while others remain cautious, restricting their use to controlled testing environments. Safety standards are still evolving, and regulatory agencies face the challenge of balancing innovation with public safety.

Until clearer guidelines and oversight are in place, robotaxi passengers and other road users may continue to face uncertainties.

What Should I Do After a Robotaxi Accident?

If you’re involved in an accident with a robotaxi, you should first ensure your safety. Check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible. Call 911 for medical assistance if needed. Even if you feel fine, some injuries do not show symptoms right away and can worsen over time if left untreated. Your medical records can also serve as evidence, should you need to pursue a personal injury lawsuit.

If you are able, document the scene and take photos of the accident, including damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact details from witnesses, as well as any identification information provided by the robotaxi or its operator.

Notify the local authorities and the company operating the robotaxi. Request a copy of the official report. 

Lastly, contact Morgan & Morgan—it’s free to do so and with no obligation. This way you can learn about your legal options and if a robotaxi is at fault for your injuries. 

An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the legal process and help you pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Are Robotaxis Safe?

While robotaxis hold incredible promise for reducing traffic accidents and improving transportation efficiency, their safety is far from guaranteed. As technology continues to evolve, so too must the systems, regulations, and safeguards designed to protect passengers and other road users.

And with information about the companies behind the cars leaked to the press, the public is increasingly aware that not every risk has been disclosed. This leads consumers to ask: if robotaxi companies are already trying to omit the details of their current safety concerns, why should we trust them moving forward?

If getting in your own vehicle or a self-driving robotaxi, the important thing is to remain alert and prioritize the safety of yourself and your loved ones who are along for the ride.

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a robotaxi, Morgan & Morgan is here to help. Our experienced attorneys understand the complexities of autonomous vehicle cases and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.