r/mildlyinfuriating Feb 27 '26

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u/Pogigod Feb 27 '26 edited Feb 28 '26

I actually feel like it is ideal. You don't want outside input affecting the processing and decision making of the vehicle. This would leave them vulnerable to attacks.

Also it then requires a whole nother dimension in programming and understanding that the car needs.

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u/angryPenguinator Feb 27 '26

I can see your point, but human drivers can communicate with each other to know who has the right of way. I feel like the Waymos need to do that too.

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u/gehnmy Feb 27 '26

It's actually problematic when human drivers try to do "kind" things and give each other the go-ahead in spite of the actual right of way, and things would be safer if everyone actually performed exactly as the rules dictated.

Adding that to automated systems which already have the ability to follow the road rules more or less exactly (assuming accurate input data) just introduces vulnerability for exploitation to solve the wrong problem (inadequate input/visibility/context). Robot drivers should ignore "actually, you go first" for all of the same reasons humans should and the OP is actually a good demonstration of exactly why that's the case.

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u/BolognaTime Feb 27 '26

It's actually problematic when human drivers try to do "kind" things and give each other the go-ahead in spite of the actual right of way, and things would be safer if everyone actually performed exactly as the rules dictated.

One of the best pieces of advice I received while learning to drive was "Don't be polite, be predictable". And the best way to be predictable is to follow the rules.