Are Self-Driving Cars Really the Safe Bet We Hope For?

The buzz around self-driving cars is huge. Companies like Waymo, Tesla, and Zoox are saying their robotaxis are making roads safer. Many news outlets are quick to agree, claiming these cars have fewer accidents than humans. But is this really the case? The idea is that if robotaxis are safer, then rules slowing them down are actually causing harm. A doctor even wrote that we should speed up their use for public health. But before we jump on the bandwagon, let's think critically. First, the data isn't clear-cut. Sure, robotaxis might have fewer accidents, but what about near-misses? What about situations they can't handle? Human drivers have instincts and experience that robots don't yet match.Plus, safety isn't just about accidents. It's about trust, reliability, and how people interact with these cars. If robotaxis can't handle unexpected situations, are they really safer? Another angle is the environment. Self-driving cars could mean more cars on the road if they replace public transport. That's not good for traffic or pollution. So, even if they are safer, there are other things to consider. Lastly, regulations exist for a reason. They make sure new tech is safe before it's widely used. Rushing things could lead to bigger problems down the line.