Waymo Car Involved in Los Angeles Collision

A two-vehicle collision occurred Sunday near downtown Los Angeles, involving a Waymo car. This incident resulted in two individuals being hospitalized and several others sustaining injuries, as reported by first responders.

The accident took place at 5:45 a.m. near the intersection of Venice Boulevard and Toberman Street in the Pico-Union neighborhood. The exact number of victims was not confirmed by the Los Angeles Police Department spokesperson.

The Los Angeles Fire Department stated that at least two people were transported to nearby hospitals, with at least one other individual receiving treatment and being released at the scene. Photos from the accident site displayed debris and clothing scattered around the location.

Initially reported as an auto-pedestrian collision, the cause of the incident remains undetermined. The LAPD announced at noon on Sunday that a police investigation was still in progress.

A spokesperson for Waymo indicated that the company’s vehicle was not responsible for the collision. According to Waymo, their car was traveling eastbound at 27 mph on Venice Boulevard when a blue sedan, moving at 47-50 mph, struck a pedestrian outside a crosswalk. Afterward, the sedan swerved into the oncoming traffic lane and collided with the self-driving car.

Ethan Teicher, a Waymo spokesperson, emphasized that the safety of their riders and other road users is paramount. They expressed appreciation for the swift response of first responders and stated they are working closely with them.