[bitslayer]

The article mentions that the robocar can theoretically see other drivers intent: <i>It’s worth noting that sometimes humans solve this problem by making eye contact, to know if the other car has seen you. Turns out that robots can do that as well, because the human eye flashes brightly in the red and infrared when looking directly at you — the “red eye” effect of small flash cameras.</i> But what about the other way? Perhaps the bus driver couldn't see Goog's flashing eyes, and assumed therefore it wouldn't attempt to merge back in.