Austin, Texas, January 16, 2026
Waymo’s autonomous vehicles in Austin, Texas, have been reported to illegally pass stopped school buses despite previous software updates by the company. The Austin Independent School District documented at least 23 violations this school year, raising safety concerns for students. Waymo has initiated a software update and filed a recall, yet violations persist. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into the matter, while AISD is exploring legal options to ensure student safety during school drop-off and pickup times.
Austin, Texas: Waymo’s Robotaxis Continue to Pass Stopped School Buses
Austin, Texas – The Austin Independent School District (AISD) has reported that Waymo’s autonomous vehicles continue to illegally pass stopped school buses, despite the company’s previous software updates aimed at resolving the issue. The most recent violation occurred on January 12, 2026, with additional incidents reported on December 11, 12, and 19, 2025.
Details of the Violations
AISD officials have documented at least 23 instances this school year where Waymo vehicles passed stopped school buses with red lights flashing and stop arms extended. In one incident, a Waymo vehicle was recorded driving past a stopped bus moments after a student crossed in front of the vehicle, while the student was still in the road.
Waymo’s Response
In response to these violations, Waymo implemented a software update on November 17, 2025, to address the issue. The company also filed a voluntary recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on December 8, 2025, to further rectify the problem. Despite these measures, AISD reports that the violations have continued.
Regulatory Actions
The NHTSA opened an investigation into Waymo’s operations after reports of its vehicles illegally passing stopped school buses in Austin. The agency has requested detailed information from Waymo regarding its self-driving system and operations.
Safety Concerns
AISD has expressed concern over the safety of students, urging Waymo to cease operations during school pickup and drop-off times. The district has also indicated that it is exploring all potential legal remedies to protect student safety.
Background
Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., has been operating autonomous vehicles in various U.S. cities, including Austin. The company has previously stated that safety is its top priority and has implemented measures to improve its vehicles’ interactions with school buses.
Conclusion
Despite efforts by Waymo to address the issue, AISD continues to report violations of Texas law by the company’s autonomous vehicles. The situation remains under investigation by both AISD and federal regulators.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the issue with Waymo’s autonomous vehicles in Austin?
The Austin Independent School District (AISD) has reported that Waymo’s autonomous vehicles continue to illegally pass stopped school buses, despite the company’s previous software updates aimed at resolving the issue. The most recent violation occurred on January 12, 2026, with additional incidents reported on December 11, 12, and 19, 2025.
How many violations have been reported?
AISD officials have documented at least 23 instances this school year where Waymo vehicles passed stopped school buses with red lights flashing and stop arms extended. In one incident, a Waymo vehicle was recorded driving past a stopped bus moments after a student crossed in front of the vehicle, while the student was still in the road.
What actions has Waymo taken in response?
In response to these violations, Waymo implemented a software update on November 17, 2025, to address the issue. The company also filed a voluntary recall with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on December 8, 2025, to further rectify the problem. Despite these measures, AISD reports that the violations have continued.
What is the NHTSA’s involvement?
The NHTSA opened an investigation into Waymo’s operations after reports of its vehicles illegally passing stopped school buses in Austin. The agency has requested detailed information from Waymo regarding its self-driving system and operations.
What is AISD’s stance on Waymo’s operations?
AISD has expressed concern over the safety of students, urging Waymo to cease operations during school pickup and drop-off times. The district has also indicated that it is exploring all potential legal remedies to protect student safety.
Key Features of the Situation
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Issue | Waymo’s autonomous vehicles illegally passing stopped school buses in Austin |
| Number of Violations | At least 23 instances reported this school year |
| Recent Violation | January 12, 2026 |
| Waymo’s Response | Implemented software update on November 17, 2025; filed voluntary recall with NHTSA on December 8, 2025 |
| NHTSA’s Involvement | Opened investigation into Waymo’s operations; requested detailed information from Waymo |
| AISD’s Stance | Urged Waymo to cease operations during school pickup and drop-off times; exploring legal remedies to protect student safety |
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