Waymo pulls nearly 3,900 robotaxis after cars drive into closed highway work zones

SAN FRANCISCO (KGO) -- Waymo is recalling more than 3,800 robotaxis following at least 13 instances of vehicles driving into highway construction zones, according to the company and federal filings.

The Bay Area-based autonomous vehicle company attributed the incidents to a software issue.

MORE: Waymo issues voluntary recall after recorded issues in Texas; vehicles will remain on roads

Six of the incidents occurred in Phoenix in April, while seven occurred in San Francisco last month. In response, Waymo immediately restricted its freeway operations.

The company's vehicles continue to operate on surface streets.

According to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a fix for the problem is "under development."

The recall places Waymo back in the spotlight as officials and the company work to address the safety concern and prevent autonomous vehicles from entering highway construction zones.