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Protecting Accident Victims Throughout Western Pennsylvania.

A malfunctioning GPS can compromise your safety

On Behalf of | Dec 28, 2022 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

The GPS in your car is a valuable feature that provides directions and traffic updates. Unfortunately, if your GPS malfunctions it can result in an accident.

Most people take their GPS devices for granted, but there are various reasons that they could shut down or malfunction. In fact, various GPS devices may malfunction as 3G networks shut down.

Why GPS devices malfunction

Between 2010 and 2021, the 3G wireless network dominated the tech world. As technology continued to advance, however, 4G and 5G surpassed the capabilities of 3G. 3G has a lower capacity than its successors and cannot transfer nearly as much data. Unfortunately, older navigation systems still rely on 3G networks. As 3G shuts down, you may lose up-to-date maps and roadside assistance. Additionally, older navigation system models may become obsolete after incompatible updates to the system.

How GPS devices can cause unsafe situations

Accidents can occur due to faulty GPS devices. A faulty GPS may tell you to turn on streets that no longer exist or bring you straight into a construction zone without warning you of detours. Any confusion behind the wheel can make it difficult to concentrate on other roadway conditions. Not only do you have to pay attention to the road itself, but you may want to try to fix the GPS. Hearing the wrong instructions while driving can lead to a series of dangerous errors behind the wheel.

In cases where the GPS manufacturer failed to program the system properly, any accident, as a result, may be the fault of the manufacturer.