# Waymo’s battle against vandals in San Francisco
—
Recent months have shown a trend of hostility towards Waymo’s driverless taxis in the streets of San Francisco. These autonomous vehicles, which are responsible for thousands of rides weekly, have been victims of vandalism, physical attacks, and verbal abuse. In response to these acts, Waymo has taken legal action to protect its reputation and ensure the safety of its passengers.
## Legal action against vandals
Waymo, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., has initiated legal proceedings against two individuals accused of vandalizing their vehicles. The lawsuits seek extensive financial compensation for the damages caused, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the company’s credibility. The incidents of tire slashing and rear-end collisions pose a significant threat to Waymo’s ride-hailing business, raising concerns about passenger safety and public perception.
## Safety concerns and regulatory scrutiny
Despite not being involved in any fatal accidents, Waymo’s self-driving cars have come under scrutiny by US regulators for their occasional erratic behavior. The company’s commitment to prioritizing safety is reflected in their response to these incidents. Waymo spokesperson Sandy Karp stressed the importance of safeguarding passengers and ensuring a smooth ride-sharing experience.
## Legal disputes and criminal charges
In one lawsuit, Waymo accuses a Tesla Model 3 driver of intentionally crashing into one of their autonomous vehicles, leading to a confrontation between the driver and a Waymo representative. The other lawsuit targets an individual who allegedly damaged multiple Waymo vehicles by slashing their tires. The legal battles highlight the ongoing challenges faced by innovative technology companies in combating acts of vandalism and ensuring public safety in urban environments.
## Civil vs. criminal proceedings
While criminal charges have been filed against the accused vandals, their defense attorneys argue for leniency, citing personal struggles and the need for support rather than punishment. The legal battles in both civil and criminal courts underscore the complexities of addressing vandalism and ensuring accountability in cases involving advanced technologies like autonomous vehicles.
## Waymo’s response and future outlook
As the legal proceedings unfold, Waymo remains committed to improving the safety and reliability of its ride-hailing services. The company’s resolve to protect its reputation and passengers from harm demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing security challenges in the evolving landscape of autonomous transportation. By taking a stand against acts of vandalism, Waymo aims to create a safer and more sustainable future for self-driving technology in urban settings.
