Title: The Aftermath of San Francisco's Power Outage: A Test for Waymo Taxis
In the wake of a recent power outage that left many parts of San Francisco in darkness, city officials have called for an investigation into Waymo after their self-driving taxis experienced widespread issues. This event has raised concerns about the readiness and reliability of these autonomous vehicles during emergencies such as earthquakes – a common concern given California's seismic activity history.
Historically, San Francisco has faced several major earthquakes, including the 1906 disaster that devastated much of the city. In recent years, there have been numerous smaller quakes which serve as reminders of the potential for larger-scale disasters. As such, it is crucial to assess how well prepared these self-driving taxis are in handling such events.
The implications of this investigation could be significant if Waymo's technology fails to meet safety standards during emergencies. It would not only affect public trust but also raise questions about the overall efficiency and reliability of autonomous vehicles. Moreover, it may lead to stricter regulations being imposed on these companies by city authorities.
From my perspective, this incident highlights the importance of ensuring that all technologies – particularly those related to transportation – are thoroughly tested under various conditions before they become widely used. While self-driving taxis offer numerous benefits such as reduced traffic congestion and improved accessibility for disabled individuals, their safety must always remain paramount.
In conclusion, while Waymo's self-driving taxis have shown promise in everyday situations, this power outage incident serves as a stark reminder that they need to be thoroughly tested under extreme conditions like earthquakes. The outcome of the investigation will not only determine the future of these vehicles but also shape public opinion on autonomous transportation systems.
Source: [Original Article](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/12/22/us/waymo-san-francisco-power-earthquake.html) #after
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