Daily Tech News Show Driverless Taxis Are Safer - DTNS 5157
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Dec 3, 2025 The hosts delve into the rise of driverless taxis around the globe, discussing their surprising safety records compared to human drivers. They highlight how Waymo has modified its autonomous driving behavior for better traffic integration. There's a fascinating look at the social and policy implications of safer autonomous vehicles, coupled with thoughts on driving as a potential leisure activity in the future. Meanwhile, the podcast touches on Google’s AI mishaps in writing headlines and other tech trends like a new feature on Amazon Prime Video.
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Driverless Taxis Cut Crashes Dramatically
- Waymo's 100 million driverless miles show 80% fewer injury-causing crashes and 91% fewer serious injury crashes compared with human drivers.
- The data suggests autonomous taxis can deliver substantial public-health benefits by reducing traffic fatalities and severe injuries.
Frequent Waymo Sightings Feel Familiar
- Sarah Lane describes frequent Waymo sightings in her neighborhood and mostly safe behavior from the vehicles.
- She mentioned a rare early incident where a Waymo blew a stop sign but emphasized she feels safe around them.
Drivers Adjust Around Autonomous Cars
- Tom Merritt and Sarah Lane share driving moments where they altered behavior around Waymos to avoid confusing them.
- Tom recounts a Waymo stopping for pedestrians and causing other cars to stop in turn.