Waymo's self-driving car models operate impressively, with some data suggesting they are even safer than human drivers. However, parking remains a driving skill this technology has yet to master. Since launching its service in Austin, Texas, US in 2024, Waymo has accumulated over 9,300 USD in parking fines. As the self-driving fleet expands, these minor violations are becoming an issue local authorities cannot ignore.

According to the Wall Street Journal, based on public city records, Waymo vehicles have received a total of 83 citations, amounting to 9,325 USD. The company has paid 7,433 USD, with 1,892 USD remaining unpaid as of mid-july.

A Waymo robotaxi in Texas, US, 4/2026. *San Antonio Report*

Detailed statistics reveal the common errors these robotaxis are making. The majority are parking violations in no-parking zones (64 cases). Additionally, 13 fines were issued for failing to pay parking fees at automated meters, and 9 cases involved double parking. The highest single fine recorded was on 11/9/2024, when a Waymo self-driving Jaguar I-Pace parked in a disabled parking spot, incurring a 519 USD fine.

Austin authorities fine the vehicle owner rather than the driver. Consequently, Waymo is obligated to pay all incurred costs, just like any private car owner. "We do not expect any special treatment in handling violations", a Waymo representative shared.

Beyond typical parking fines, more serious incidents have been recorded. Authorities once had to impound and tow a Waymo vehicle after it stopped partially on an active train track in 1/2025. In another incident, a self-driving car stopped to pick up a passenger directly in a disabled parking spot in front of an elementary school.

Local residents have also continuously submitted complaints through the city's system. One complaint stated that a Waymo vehicle stopped directly in front of a parish's garage entrance for more than 5 minutes during sunday mass, preventing other vehicles from entering or exiting.

Waymo stated that the company is working to program its system to automatically find legal parking spots when not in operation. Despite these efforts, the vehicles continue to choose incorrect stopping points. For now, the company's only solution is to continue paying fines for violations.

My Anh