Kids Hitting the Road Solo in Robotaxis: Is It Safe or Just Convenient?

In San Francisco, a new trend is emerging. Parents are letting their teens ride in self-driving cars alone. This is happening even though the rules say kids can't ride without an adult. Families are using these robotaxis as a way to get their kids to school, sports, and hangouts. They say it's safer than public transport or a new teen driver. Plus, it gives them more free time. Parents like Megan Schmidt see it as a cultural shift. She says it's normal now. If kids need a ride, they just call a Waymo. Other parents, like Laura Mancuso, say it makes life easier. She linked the app to her daughter's phone. The only downside she mentions is the cost. But she had no other issues.Waymo has tried teen accounts in Phoenix. There, teens can ride with parental oversight. But in California, regulators haven't approved this feature yet. So, why are parents taking the risk? Some say it's about giving kids independence. Others just want to save time. But is it really safe? Self-driving cars are still new. Rules are still being figured out. Parents might be trading safety for convenience. And what about the rules? If everyone starts bending them, what's the point? It's a big question.