Lyft and Uber drivers protest Waymo robotaxis in California

Drivers for Lyft and Uber protested outside the California Public Utilities Commission in San Francisco, urging greater oversight of Waymo's self-driving taxis after recent incidents; the CPUC met to consider expanded rules.

Drivers for Lyft and Uber gathered outside the California Public Utilities Commission in San Francisco to urge stricter oversight of Waymo's self-driving taxis. About two dozen drivers and supporters held signs and spoke as the CPUC met to consider additional rules for autonomous vehicles. Protesters pointed to recent incidents and service disruptions involving Waymo vehicles. The state agency declined to comment on the demonstration. What happened: - About two dozen Lyft and Uber drivers and supporters protested outside CPUC offices in San Francisco. - The California Public Utilities Commission was meeting to consider expanding regulations for autonomous robotaxis. - Protesters cited incidents including stalled vehicles during a city power outage and reports that a Waymo vehicle killed a pet. - A Waymo spokesperson emphasised the company's focus on safety and accessibility, and the California Gig Workers Union urged removal of the vehicles until safety issues are addressed. Summary: The protest highlights concerns from ride-hail drivers about safety and regulatory parity as autonomous taxis become more common. The CPUC's review of expanded rules is the current procedural step, and the outcome remains undetermined at this time.