A self-driving shuttle in Whitby, Ontario crashed into a tree on Thursday afternoon, seriously injuring the vehicle’s safety operator.
The incident occurred at around 4:00pm in the area of Watson Street West and Victoria Street.
According to witnesses, the shuttle somehow lost control, jumped the curb and slammed into a tree. The vehicle’s safety operator was the only person on board at the time of the accident.
Acting Sgt. George Tudos of the Durham Regional Police said the victim was transported to hospital, where he remains in life-threatening condition. (via cp24)
The cause of the crash is unknown and under investigation.
The self-driving shuttle operates on a pre-planned 6km (3.7 mile) route and travels at a maximum speed of 20km/h (12mph). It is equipped with radar and cameras to scan for and avoid obstacles.
During the trial program, the safety operator is always on board and can take over control of the shuttle at any time.
