A self-driving cab company has revealed the steps they take if a passenger faints during the ride, ensuring safety and proper protocol.
As self-driving technology advances, questions arise about passenger safety, especially in emergencies.
Waymo, a California-based robotaxi company, has shared its approach to handling situations involving incapacitated riders.
Ensuring safety for passengers in autonomous vehicles
Waymo launched its fully autonomous taxis in October 2020. Since then, the service has expanded to Phoenix, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, providing around 150,000 paid rides weekly.
The company emphasizes safety as a core mission. According to its website, Waymo aims to “innovate beyond the impossible” to reduce traffic fatalities.
How Waymo handles unresponsive passengers
What happens if a passenger passes out in one of these vehicles? Waymo’s advanced system has a plan:
1. Detection through technology
– The car detects unusual behavior when a passenger fails to open the door at their destination.
– Cameras inside the vehicle scan the interior using machine-learning algorithms. These systems identify if the passenger might be incapacitated, such as from excessive alcohol consumption.
2. Human oversight for verification
– If flagged, Waymo’s human staff reviews a blurred video feed to assess the situation.
– Only a few authorized employees have access to the live feed, maintaining privacy while ensuring safety.
3. Contacting the passenger
– A “rider support agent” attempts to communicate with the passenger via the car’s interface.
– If there’s no response, the agent contacts emergency services.
4. Emergency response coordination
– Emergency crews can request Waymo to unlock the vehicle remotely.
– If necessary, responders may break a window to access the passenger.
Addressing concerns about public safety
Waymo assures that such incidents are rare. However, the San Francisco Fire Department has reported responding to other robotaxi-related calls, including vandalism and disturbances.
Fire Lieutenant Mariano Elias noted it’s not uncommon for emergency crews to handle unresponsive passengers in rideshare vehicles like Uber and Lyft.
Waymo’s role in reducing drunk driving
The revelation comes amid rising concerns over drunk driving.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drunk driving deaths have reached a 15-year high.
Waymo promotes its autonomous service as a safer alternative for individuals returning home after drinking.
With plans to expand to Austin, Atlanta, and Miami, the company aims to provide a reliable option to reduce drunk driving incidents.
Waymo’s innovative approach demonstrates how technology can enhance passenger safety.
By addressing potential emergencies, the company reinforces its commitment to creating a safer transportation future.