Does GPS Technology Cause Distracted Driving Accidents in Georgia?

While GPS is a great technology, some people start to rely too much on technology and throw common sense out the window.

Although GPS tracking devices cannot in and of themself cause accidents, poor judgement and choices on the part of a driver using GPS devices can.

The use of GPS devices and an increased number of auto accidents have been statistically linked. Some people are relying far too heavily on their GPS telling them where to go. This is not always a good idea since the maps can become outdated, construction on roads may not be reflected and satellite communication errors occur, which may block out the signal.

Sometimes drivers attempt to punch in their GPS coordinates while they are driving. This is no different than trying to text or talk on a cell phone. It is a distraction and driving requires all of your attention, so typing in GPS input information should be done while you are pulled over. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that driver distraction is the cause of 25-30% of the roughly 1.2 million car crashes in the U.S. each year. When drivers turn off the voice command on their GPS, they have to look at the unit instead of the road, and that can increase the risk of them getting into an auto accident.

GPS units are used by millions of vehicle drivers on the roads in the United States. The trucking industry uses them as an invaluable device to help track fleet traffic and drivers. This can help the company save money and they can also save on insurance premiums when these devices are installed.

GPS devices are great tools when used correctly and when drivers don't depend on them too much. They can be of great help in getting from one place to another but when used without common sense can get a driver into trouble as well. They can also distract a driver to the point where they can cause an accident harming others in the process.

If you or someone you love is the victim of a distracted driver, Montlick and Associates, Attorneys at Law, can help you as we have thousands of families throughout Georgia since 1984. Our experienced Atlanta car accident attorneys are available to assist clients throughout all of Georgia, including but not limited to Albany, Athens, Atlanta, Augusta, Columbus, Dalton, Gainesville, Macon, Marietta, Rome, Roswell, Savannah, Smyrna, Valdosta, Warner Robins and all smaller cities and rural areas in the state. Call us today for your free consultation at 1-800-LAW-NEED (1-800-529-6333) or visit us on the web at www.montlick.com. No matter where you are located, we are just a phone call away, and we will even come to you.