US Closes 14-Month Probe Into Waymo Self-Driving Collisions

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has closed its 14-month investigation into Alphabet's Waymo self-driving vehicles after reviewing reports of minor collisions and unexpected driving behaviors, including improper responses to traffic control devices and entering construction zones. The probe, initiated in May 2024, identified 367 incidents, including 109 crashes and one injury. During the investigation, Waymo issued two recalls: the first in June 2024 addressing software updates after an unoccupied robotaxi struck a utility pole, and the second in May 2025 affecting over 1,200 vehicles to improve detection and avoidance of roadway barriers. NHTSA cited these recalls and its data analysis as reasons for closing the investigation without further action. Waymo currently operates approximately 1,500 robotaxis across multiple U.S. cities and recently announced its vehicles have logged 100 million miles on public roads. Despite the investigation's closure, the scrutiny highlights ongoing regulatory oversight as autonomous vehicle technology advances.