How Can You Actually Get a Waymo in Atlanta Through Uber?
If you’ve been itching to try out a Waymo robotaxi in Atlanta, you’re not alone. The buzz is real—self-driving cars are finally rolling out in the city, but there’s a catch. You can’t just open your Uber app and tap a button for a Waymo. Instead, the process is a bit more roundabout. Riders are booking a regular UberX, then canceling if a human driver is assigned, hoping that the next ride will be a Waymo. It’s a workaround, and it’s catching on fast.
Why Are Atlantans So Eager to Try Robotaxis?
Curiosity is a big part of it. For many, the idea of riding in a car with no one behind the wheel feels like stepping into the future. There’s also the novelty factor—Waymo’s vehicles have been making headlines for years, but most people have never actually experienced one. According to a 2023 Pew Research Center survey, nearly 60% of Americans are interested in trying autonomous vehicles, even if they have reservations about safety. In Atlanta, that curiosity is translating into a surge of demand, with some riders going out of their way to experience the tech firsthand.
What’s the Real Experience Like Inside a Waymo?
So, what happens when you finally snag a Waymo ride? Riders report a mix of excitement and a touch of nervousness. The car arrives, sensors spinning, and you’re greeted by a friendly voice from the speakers. The ride itself is smooth and surprisingly uneventful—no sudden stops or jerky turns. Waymo’s fleet is known for its cautious driving style, often erring on the side of safety. One Atlanta resident shared that her first ride felt “almost boring in the best way possible,” with the car carefully navigating city streets and traffic lights. The novelty wears off quickly, replaced by a sense of trust in the technology.
Are There Downsides to the Current System?
Absolutely. The workaround of canceling human drivers isn’t ideal. It can be frustrating for both riders and drivers—some drivers have reported a spike in cancellations, which can impact their earnings and ratings. There’s also the issue of availability. Waymo vehicles are still limited in number, so you might have to try several times before you get matched with one. This system isn’t sustainable in the long run, and Uber has acknowledged that they’re working on a more direct way to request a Waymo ride in the future.
How Safe Are Waymo Robotaxis Compared to Human Drivers?
Safety is always top of mind when it comes to autonomous vehicles. Waymo’s track record is strong: according to a 2023 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Waymo vehicles have been involved in significantly fewer at-fault accidents per mile than the average human driver. The cars use a combination of lidar, radar, and cameras to monitor their surroundings 360 degrees, reacting faster than most people could. That said, no system is perfect—there have been minor incidents, mostly involving other drivers behaving unpredictably. But overall, the data suggests that robotaxis are at least as safe, if not safer, than their human counterparts.
What Does This Mean for Atlanta’s Transportation Future?
Atlanta is quickly becoming a testing ground for autonomous vehicles, and the city’s response could shape how these services roll out nationwide. If demand continues to grow, expect to see more Waymo vehicles on the road and, eventually, a seamless way to request them directly through Uber. The partnership is also pushing other ride-hailing companies to accelerate their own autonomous programs, which could mean more options—and more competition—for riders in the near future.
The big takeaway? Getting a Waymo in Atlanta isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.
