Waymo and other robotaxi operators are facing increased scrutiny over how their autonomous vehicles interact with emergency responders, leading to potential new federal requirements. This follows a series of incidents where robotaxis reportedly blocked fire trucks and ambulances, drove into active crime scenes, and failed to recognise safety signals.
Rep. Kevin Mullin (D-Calif.) has proposed the AV Emergency Response Coordination Act, which would direct federal regulators to establish minimum national safety standards for autonomous vehicle operators. The proposed legislation, expected to be introduced in Congress this week, also suggests requiring AV companies to provide clear emergency protocols for first responders and establish a 24-hour hotline.
The bill would also direct the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to develop minimum national emergency response standards and create a process for public officials to "geofence" AVs, limiting where they can operate during emergencies. Waymo has stated it "long supported" a federal framework to establish standards for autonomous vehicles and efforts to standardise engagement with first responders.
In early July, NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison sent a letter to AV developers, identifying a "clear pattern of driverless AVs interfering with law enforcement and other first responders." The letter demanded solutions by the end of the month. San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie has also asked California regulators to strengthen rules for autonomous vehicles following incidents in the city.