Ive surrendered to LAs robot invasion after discovering an unexpected pleasure in the back seat

Driverless cars have become part of the California lifestyle — far ahead of the rest of the country.They were a little creepy at first, but now they feel like one of the many advantages of living here.Yes, it was hard to accept a role as the backseat driver, after decades of driving myself in LA.

But I must admit I’ve finally found my perfect ride.It’s clean, quiet, and reliable.

It knows the best shortcuts, and it even greets me by my name.  The biggest news, opinion and culture shaping California right now.Please provide a valid email.

By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story Waymo started offering rides in LA in 2024.

Two years later, the robotaxi company (which is owned by Alphabet, Google’s parent company) has just expanded service to the South Bay, bringing its sleek white Jaguars to Torrance, El Segundo, and Manhattan Beach. Many people have “Waymo anxiety,” concerned about safety or how driverless cars may eliminate human taxi or rideshare jobs.Some healthy concerns are valid, but I think the robot cars are perfect for when you want a sanctuary from the chaos of the LA megalopolis — and want to be alone with your thoughts. Driverless cars don’t have to be perfect to improve on the distracted, exhausted, and sometimes intoxicated humans who are already behind the wheel.

There are 40,000 car accidents a year in LA — that’s 110 a day — and most of them are the result of human error. As robotaxis proliferate, we should monitor their safety performance, as well as their effect on jobs.But fear of change shouldn’t keep us from embracing technology that could save lives.Many who use Waymo have, like me, learned to love it.

Some appreciate that you don’t have to tip: You can travel just a few blocks and never have a driver shake his or her head in shame at your reluctance to walk.My friend Victoria describes the experience as a com...