Waymo expands service in Orlando amid viral video of stopped autonomous vehicle

A viral video showing a driverless Waymo vehicle stopped on a one-lane road near Universal Orlando has sparked questions about how the company manages roadside issues as it expands service in Central Florida, WKMG News 6 ClickOrlando reported.

The video, viewed more than 800,000 times, depicts the autonomous vehicle blocking traffic with honking drivers behind it. A man approaches the vehicle, but no human driver is present, and the cause of the stop or how the vehicle resumed movement remains unknown.

This is not the first incident involving a Waymo vehicle in the area. Earlier in October, another video showed a Waymo car stuck at Kirkman Road and Carrier Drive, apparently crossing an intersection on a red light, according to WKMG.

Despite these incidents, Waymo announced an expansion of its service area in Orlando, adding 53 square miles for a total of 120 square miles. The new coverage includes locations such as the Orlando Science Center, Orlando City Hall, and the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

WKMG has reached out to Waymo for explanations about the recent stops, safety measures, and rider assistance protocols but has not yet received a response. Updates will be provided when available.