[nolok]

It is my understanding that contrary to tesla's system, waymo's tech is already fully aware of static objects to avoid.

It is also my understanding that none of their cars in computer driven mode drove full speed into a wall or other static obstacle.

[SomewhatLikely]

The article specifically calls out their radar being able to detect stationary objects, which is unique for automotive radar.

[azernik]

They already had LIDAR, which can easily pick out static objects. The better radar means they have a lower-resolution fallback for poorer weather and longer ranges.