Self-Driving Car Hits Student in Santa Monica

A self-driving vehicle struck a student in Santa Monica last week, but fortunately, the student wasn’t hurt, as reported by the Santa Monica Police Department.

According to a statement from the police, the incident occurred on January 23, 2026, around 8:31 a.m. Officers were called to the scene of the accident near 24th Avenue and Pearl Street, close to Grant Elementary School.

Initial details suggest that the student entered the street outside of a designated crosswalk and away from the assigned crossing guard, resulting in a low-speed collision with the automated vehicle. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

The Santa Monica Fire Department evaluated the student at the scene, and a parent was present. Officers conducted an investigation, which is still ongoing.

Waymo, the company behind the self-driving vehicle, issued a statement about the event.

“We proactively reached out to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on the day of the incident. NHTSA has expressed interest in launching an investigation, and we intend to cooperate fully,” the company said.

Waymo explained that the incident occurred when the pedestrian unexpectedly entered the street from behind a tall SUV. The vehicle’s technology detected the student and slowed from about 17 mph to just under 6 mph prior to the collision.

In assessing the situation, Waymo suggested that their technology might have reacted more effectively than a human driver in similar circumstances. They indicated that a fully alert human would likely have made contact at a speed of approximately 14 mph, highlighting a potential safety advantage with their self-driving technology.

After the incident, the student stood up and walked to the sidewalk, at which point a 911 call was made. The self-driving vehicle remained at the scene until law enforcement gave the OK for it to leave.