A recent incident involving a US woman riding a self-driving taxi has highlighted the issue of women’s safety in public spaces, particularly when it comes to autonomous vehicles. The 28-year-old woman was allegedly harassed by two men who blocked her car and held traffic on the streets of San Francisco. She later posted about the incident on social media, describing how scared and helpless she felt.
The company behind the self-driving taxi service, Waymo, issued a statement apologizing for the incident and emphasizing its commitment to riders’ safety. However, some have raised concerns that with an absent human driver, passengers may be more vulnerable to harassment or other unwanted attention. Suggestions include features that allow passengers to quickly alert authorities or sound an alarm if they feel threatened.
The incident has sparked wider discussions about women’s safety in public spaces, particularly in the context of autonomous vehicles. According to a 2018 survey by India’s National Crime Records Bureau, an average of 88 women were reported as victims of sexual harassment every day. Studies have shown that around 80% of women experience some form of street harassment, with many complaining about catcalls and unwanted advances.
As the use of self-driving taxis becomes increasingly common, it is essential to address these concerns and prioritize women’s safety in public spaces.
Source: https://www.news18.com/viral/on-camera-us-woman-in-self-driving-taxi-urges-harassing-men-to-move-away-aa-9160582.html