Engadget News + Next NTSB will investigate why Waymo's robotaxis are illegally passing school buses
Jan 26, 2026
A federal safety probe into robotaxis illegally passing stopped school buses in Austin. A look at Google's new MeMeme feature for turning photos into personalized memes. Quick news bites and tech updates wrapped in a lively, fast-paced discussion.
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Federal Probe Into Robo-Taxi Bus Violations
- The NTSB opened an investigation into Waymo robo-taxis illegally passing stopped school buses in Austin, Texas.
- The probe follows an NHTSA evaluation and Waymo's voluntary software recall that didn't fully stop the incidents.
Investigation Followed NHTSA Evaluation
- The NTSB action stemmed from an NHTSA preliminary evaluation that triggered Waymo's voluntary software recall in December.
- The NTSB expects a preliminary report within 30 days and a final report in 12–24 months.
School District Saw Repeat Offenses
- The Austin school district reported robo-taxis repeating the same offense days after Waymo's software update.
- NTSB investigators will travel to Austin to gather information on these specific incidents.