In a world where reckless driving has become an everyday occurrence, the rise of autonomous vehicles offers a promising solution. This article delves into the author's firsthand experience riding in a Waymo vehicle in San Francisco, exploring both the benefits and challenges of this emerging technology. The narrative highlights the cautious yet efficient operation of these driverless cars, while also addressing concerns about safety and the human element lost in automated travel. The author reflects on the broader implications of embracing autonomous vehicles in our daily lives.

As a pedestrian and motorist, I have encountered numerous instances of distracted or careless drivers. Recently, witnessing a driver run a red light while using their phone was particularly alarming. These experiences naturally led me to consider the potential of autonomous vehicles as a safer alternative. In the heart of the San Francisco Bay Area, where self-driving cars are increasingly common, I decided to try one for myself. Waymo, a leading company in this field, has been offering rides to paying passengers since mid-2024, expanding its services to cities like Los Angeles, Phoenix, Atlanta, and Austin.

The promise of autonomous vehicles is compelling. They adhere strictly to traffic laws, ensuring safer roads without the erratic behavior often seen from human drivers. However, as a journalist, I remain skeptical. Reports of robotaxis making errors—such as driving into concrete or circling airports—raise questions about their reliability. Despite these concerns, I wanted to experience a ride in a Waymo vehicle to gauge its performance and assess whether it lives up to the hype.

I booked my ride through the Waymo app in downtown San Francisco. Stepping into an electric Jaguar I-PACE, I found myself in a car without a driver. Instead, I could see the steering wheel turn autonomously, guided by the vehicle's sensors. Initially, I was surprised by the car's assertive maneuvering, which reminded me of navigating busy New York City streets. However, the ride soon became smooth and reassuring, with the car stopping courteously at intersections and detecting pedestrians accurately. The console screen displayed the vehicle's surroundings, giving me confidence in its navigation capabilities.

The journey to the Chase Center took 17 minutes and cost $20.02, slightly longer and more expensive than expected. Over the course of three trips that morning, covering 6.2 miles, I paid nearly $50. While the experience was largely pleasant, the higher cost compared to traditional ride-sharing services made me question the practicality of frequent use. Yet, for certain scenarios—especially those involving safety concerns—the premium might be worth it. Some riders, particularly women and trans individuals, prefer Waymo for its secure environment, free from scrutiny or confrontational interactions.

However, the transition to autonomous vehicles also raises important questions about human interaction. With fewer opportunities for casual conversations during rides, we may lose moments that foster empathy and understanding. My experience with Waymo revealed that choosing a driverless car involves trade-offs between convenience and the human touch. Ultimately, each person will form their own perspective on what this shift means for them. What's clear is that hailing a driverless car is far from an inconsequential act—it reflects a broader negotiation of humanity in an increasingly technological world.