Waymo Service Limits Due to 'No Kings' Protests

Waymo Restricts Robotaxi Service Ahead of Protests

Waymo, the robotaxi company owned by Alphabet, is adjusting its operational areas in anticipation of nationwide protests scheduled for Saturday.

These demonstrations, known as “No Kings,” are directed against President Donald Trump and the policies enacted during his administration.

Service Adjustments Across Multiple Cities

A Waymo representative verified these changes to Wired on Friday. The adjustments impact service availability in several key cities.

Specifically, operations are being limited in San Francisco, Austin, Atlanta, and Phoenix. Complete suspension of service is currently in effect for Los Angeles.

The duration of these service limitations remains uncertain at this time.

Recent Vandalism in Los Angeles

Last weekend’s protests in Los Angeles, focused on the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement measures, resulted in significant damage to Waymo vehicles.

Five robotaxis were deliberately set ablaze and defaced with spray paint bearing anti-ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) slogans.

Following this incident, Waymo temporarily halted service within downtown Los Angeles.

Concerns Over Surveillance Capabilities

The motivation behind targeting the vehicles is not definitively known. However, they may be perceived as potential surveillance platforms.

Law enforcement agencies have previously requested access to footage captured by Waymo robotaxis to aid in their investigations.

Waymo states that it actively contests requests deemed excessively broad or lacking sufficient legal justification.

Fire Department Response During Civil Unrest

The San Francisco Chronicle reported that the city’s fire chief communicated to officials on Wednesday regarding a specific protocol during periods of civil disturbance.

According to this directive, firefighters will refrain from extinguishing fires unless they pose an immediate threat to adjacent structures.

This policy highlights the potential challenges faced by autonomous vehicle operators during times of social and political unrest.