GPS data improves the reporting of accidents
A new way of reporting accidents is emerging. In a spate of collisions between bicycles and cars many cyclists are able to show precise locations of exactly where (8 figure grid reference) the collision occurred.
In one incident reported in the New York Times on 5 September a cyclist was hit by a motorcar at an intersection when he had right of way. He stated that she came out of an alleyway and drove right into him. The lady driver said she didn’t see him and did not believe that she had actually struck the rider.
With the absence of witnesses it was her word against the cyclist’s despite a dent on the car. . The police were reluctant to charge as they said that they had no proof as to where he was at the time of the accident. He produced his GPS data which could show a precise record as to his movements and location up to the time of the collision and exactly where it was.
“You could see where I stopped at the stop sign, where I got hit by a car and where the bike came to rest. On the corresponding time stamp you could see the speeds, the stops and even where my heart rate spikes as she hit me” he quoted.
He sent the data to her insurance company who accepted responsibility for the accident.
GPS data is also now being used in car accident claims. It is important that Los Angeles Car accident Attorneys know how to obtain and analyze the data. This is likely to become a growth industry for experts able to do so.
Of course not every accident is that straightforward or the parties as lucky not to have sustained any serious injury. In many collisions between cars and cyclist or motorcyclists the injuries are often far more serious. The sad thing is that a cyclist and even a motorbike is a small object on the road and is often not seen. Motor bikes can help by always having their lights on and wearing bright clothing. The same for cyclists where LED technology makes bright colored flashing lights perfectly possible.
Irrespective of visibility and warning lights accidents will still happen and the biker or cyclist will often suffer terrible trauma. Anyone who is involved in such an accident would be well advised to contact an Accident Attorney in Los Angeles to ensure that one is protected and represented. Insurance claims are bound to be filed one way or another and until fault is established and the insurance company of the at fault driver has accepted liability the proceedings can be harrowing.
The GPS data, as it becomes used more and more might become a significant factor is settling claims. However, not every car or bike or cyclist has a GPS fitted and operating. In fact they would be the rarity. So if one is involved in an accident where any party has been injured, albeit a minor injury, representation by a Personal Injury Attorney in Los Angeles is almost essential.