Why We Shouldn't Rush Into Self-Driving Cars

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1. 01Why We Shouldn't Rush Into Self-Driving Cars

   Good afternoon, everyone. Self-driving cars are exciting, and I understand why many people want them on our streets. But today, I'll argue that our city shouldn't rush into allowing them.

2. 02What's Happening Now

   Let's start with the facts. Waymo has run a fully driverless ride service in Phoenix since 2020, and in San Francisco and Los Angeles since 2024. So the question is no longer whether this is possible, but whether it's ready for everywhere.

   Source: Waymo, service launches in Phoenix (2020) and San Francisco and Los Angeles (2024)

3. 03Reason 1: Who Collected the Data?

   Supporters often point to a 2024 study showing far fewer insurance claims for Waymo cars than for human drivers. Those results are impressive. But the study was carried out together with Waymo itself, and most safety data comes from the companies that sell the technology.

   Source: Swiss Re & Waymo, liability claims study of 25.3 million autonomous miles (December 2024)

4. 04Reason 2: Not Every City Is the Same

   My second reason is that cities are different. A car that works well on wide, sunny streets may struggle with snow, heavy rain, or narrow old roads like ours. Success in one place doesn't guarantee success everywhere.

5. 05Reason 3: What Happens to Drivers' Jobs?

   My third concern is jobs. Many people in our city earn a living by driving taxis, buses, and delivery vans. If we move too fast, we could leave them without a plan for their future.

6. 06Admittedly, Humans Make Mistakes Too

   Admittedly, human drivers are far from perfect. They get tired and distracted. I'm not saying self-driving cars should never come. I'm saying we should be sure before we let them in.

7. 07A Careful Path

   Instead of rushing, I suggest a careful path: independent safety testing in our own conditions, a small trial area first, and a clear plan to retrain drivers whose jobs may change.

8. 08Conclusion

   To conclude, self-driving cars may have a bright future, but a city is not a laboratory. Let's collect our own evidence and protect the people affected before we open our streets. Thank you.