BREAKING: A San Francisco woman has given birth in a Waymo self-driving taxi, marking a stunning and unexpected event in the city’s ongoing experiment with autonomous vehicles. This incident occurred on October 24, 2023, as the mother was en route to the hospital when labor unexpectedly began.
Witnesses report the cab hailed through the Waymo app was en route when the woman experienced intense contractions. She reportedly went into active labor just moments after entering the vehicle. Emergency services were alerted, and the Waymo taxi was able to pull over safely, where the woman delivered her baby with the assistance of bystanders.
This unusual incident comes on the heels of several controversies surrounding Waymo’s autonomous taxis, including their involvement in accidents and incidents that have sparked public debate. Just last week, the vehicles were criticized after a beloved San Francisco bodega cat was killed and an illegal U-turn was made in front of police, leading to an inability to issue a ticket.
Authorities confirmed that the woman and her newborn were safely transported to a nearby hospital where both are reported to be in good health. The local police department is investigating the situation as part of their ongoing review of self-driving vehicle operations in the city.
The story has quickly gained traction on social media, with many users expressing astonishment and humor over the circumstances of the birth. One Twitter user remarked, “Only in San Francisco could you give birth in a self-driving taxi!”
This incident raises critical questions about the reliability of autonomous vehicles, especially in emergency situations. As Waymo continues to expand its self-driving taxi fleet, this event could impact public perception and regulatory discussions surrounding the technology.
What happens next? As Waymo prepares to address this incident, industry experts will be watching closely for any implications it may have on the future of autonomous transportation. The company is expected to release an official statement in the coming hours, outlining their commitment to safety and reliability in light of this unprecedented event.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
