Waymo suspends freeway robotaxi services after AI malfunctions
Waymo suspended freeway robotaxi services across multiple U.S. cities in May 2026 after software defects caused autonomous vehicles to malfunction in construction zones and flooded roads. One incident trapped a driver behind two malfunctioning Waymos for approximately 50 minutes, leading the company to recall 3,800 vehicles and pause operations while updating its software.
What happened
In May 2026, Waymo suspended freeway robotaxi services in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Miami, and Atlanta due to safety concerns.
A California driver reported being trapped behind two Waymo vehicles for approximately 50 minutes after they cut her off and refused to move through multiple traffic light cycles. She called 911 for assistance.
Waymo also recalled 3,800 vehicles earlier in May after a software defect caused some robotaxis to drive into flooded roadways. The company identified performance issues in construction zones and flooded road conditions.
Reported impact
The trapped driver experienced panic as traffic accumulated behind her and one Waymo suddenly reversed without warning. She eventually escaped with assistance from another driver.
The freeway service suspension affects operations across multiple major U.S. markets where Waymo previously offered rides.
Index analysis
The incidents suggest autonomous navigation failures under specific environmental conditions, including traffic management on freeways and hazard avoidance in flooded areas.
Governance controls
Waymo stated it was pausing freeway operations to integrate technical learnings into its software and expected to resume routes soon. Street and off-highway Waymo services continued during the suspension.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.