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Delivery Robot Acting Erratically Nearly Crashes Into Man with Cerebral Palsy, Raising Safety Concerns

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Los Angeles, CA – A delivery robot from Serve Robotics recently sparked safety concerns after it nearly crashed into Mark Chaney, a man with cerebral palsy, while he was using his mobility scooter in Los Angeles. The incident has ignited calls for better accessibility considerations and more inclusive testing protocols in the development of delivery robots.

Mark Chaney was traveling home on his mobility scooter on September 13 when the delivery robot exhibited “erratic” behavior, moving slowly but unpredictably across the sidewalk. Despite his efforts to let the robot pass, the robot cut him off and abruptly stopped, causing him to bump into it. Chaney’s experience highlights the potential risks for people with disabilities when interacting with emerging autonomous technologies.

Mark Chaney’s Encounter with the Delivery Robot

According to Chaney, while moving at about 3 mph, the Serve Robotics cart behaved strangely when he tried to pass. He stated, “The robot had been acting strangely… I tried to give it lots of room to pass, and it cut me off.

Then it hit the brakes right in front of me, and I bumped into it.” Chaney alleges that the robot reversed into him, causing his scooter to jolt backward, though Serve Robotics refutes this claim.

Serve Robotics explained in a statement:

“Within moments, the robot came to a full stop in response to sensing a pedestrian in close proximity, which is considered its fail-safe state. Unlike humans, our robots have 360° visibility and are designed to anticipate and respond to objects approaching from behind to ensure safe and mindful interactions.”

The company acknowledged a safety system miscalculation, which caused the robot to impede Chaney’s path instead of yielding right of way. They admitted there was “a single instance of contact” but denied the robot reversed.

Calls for Inclusive Design and Accessibility in Robotics

Chaney, a vocal advocate for people with disabilities, expressed frustration with Serve Robotics’ initial response, which he described as dismissive. “It felt like they were saying it was my fault,” he told PEOPLE. He emphasized the need for these technologies to be designed with all users in mind, particularly those using mobility aids like wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers.

He stressed:

“If you’re not testing [delivery robots] against wheelchairs, scooters or walkers, then you’re not designing for everyone. At minimum, they need to include people with disabilities in the room when these systems are designed. If we’re not there, it’s not built for us.”

Chaney also noted the potential severity of such incidents, explaining that if he were using crutches instead of a scooter, he likely would have fallen and faced weeks of recovery, making this “not just inconvenient” but potentially life-altering.

Serve Robotics’ Response and Future Measures

In response to the incident, Serve Robotics stated they are “fast-tracking” the launch of an Accessibility Council aimed at integrating feedback from disability advocates into product development. The company is also creating new outreach roles to collaborate with communities focused on disability inclusion.

Serve Robotics further noted that, initially, their robots underwent testing with seniors and people who use wheelchairs or have mobility challenges. They reaffirmed their commitment to safe navigation and interaction:

  • Robots are designed to not impede those with disabilities.
  • They regret situations where their technology fails to meet safety standards.
  • Ongoing improvements will be implemented following this incident.

Chaney updated his followers on September 22, revealing that Serve Robotics attributed the incident to a malfunctioning sensor. He has requested accountability and changes to improve safety. Chaney expressed hope for collaboration but also fears the company might dismiss his concerns.

“Disability sometimes makes you feel powerless. Truly hope for change. I could use good thoughts and thank you for all the support.”

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Broader Safety Concerns for Delivery Robots in Public Spaces

Mark Chaney’s close call is not an isolated case. Just days later, on September 17, a Serve Robotics cart blocked a Los Angeles Fire Department fire truck in Hollywood, briefly delaying emergency response. Though the robot eventually cleared the way, the incident underscores the growing need for rigorous safety protocols for autonomous delivery devices operating in busy urban environments.

Looking Ahead: Safety and Inclusion in Emerging Technologies

This incident raises important questions about the integration of autonomous delivery robots and the necessity to design with accessibility at the forefront. Technologies intended to ease daily tasks must ensure they do not become obstacles or hazards for vulnerable populations.

Advocates like Chaney remind developers and policymakers that inclusion means involving people with disabilities at every design stage. Without this, innovations risk excluding or endangering those they aim to serve.

For more insights on this story, visit the original report by People Magazine here.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mark Chaney, a man with cerebral palsy, nearly collided with an erratically moving Serve Robotics delivery robot on September 13 in Los Angeles.
  • The robot’s safety system miscalculated, causing it to block Chaney’s path instead of yielding.
  • Serve Robotics is establishing an Accessibility Council to incorporate disability advocate feedback.
  • Advocates stress the importance of designing and testing robots with mobility aids like wheelchairs and scooters to ensure safety for all.
  • Previous incidents include a delivery robot blocking an emergency fire truck, raising broader safety concerns.

What do you think about this incident involving delivery robots and accessibility? Have you encountered autonomous delivery devices in your community? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below!

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