Waymo introduces four-stage incident management framework for autonomous fleets

Waymo has introduced a standardized four-stage incident management framework designed to improve how emergency responders and technical teams handle autonomous vehicle emergencies. The methodology adapts the Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) used by the US agency FEMA to create structured training for driverless fleet operations.

The framework aims to move beyond engineering solutions by establishing coordinated procedures for police, fire departments, and developers. The training model consists of four progressive stages:

1. Formative Exercises (Workshops): Working groups define interfaces and operational processes. 2. Educational (Tabletop Discussions): Scenario-based discussions to train decision-making pathways. 3. Summative Exercises (Drills): Targeted operational practice of specific measures. 4. Confirmatory (Full-Scale Exercises): Comprehensive, real-world simulations under realistic conditions.

This research-based guide is intended as a practical framework for developers and authorities rather than a new regulatory requirement. It seeks to ensure that human responders and vehicle software can act in a coordinated manner during rare or unpredictable incidents, such as collisions or sensor failures.