NHTSA Closes Waymo Investigation Without Enforcement Action

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) concluded its 14-month probe into Waymo's autonomous vehicle operations on July 25, issuing no penalties despite earlier safety concerns. The investigation, initiated in May 2024 following 22 consumer complaints, focused on alleged traffic violations and erratic behavior by Waymo's robotaxis—17 of which involved collisions.

Regulators highlighted particular concern over incidents where vehicles failed to avoid stationary obstacles like poles and barriers. "Multiple collisions involved clearly visible objects that any competent driver WOULD avoid," NHTSA stated in its closure notice. The decision followed two voluntary recalls by Waymo, including a May 2024 software update for 1,200 vehicles to improve obstacle detection.

Waymo spokesperson Katherine Barna emphasized the company's proactive measures, stating the updates addressed confusion around chained barriers and construction zones. The resolution comes as autonomous vehicle developers face heightened scrutiny over AI decision-making in complex traffic scenarios.