Tragic Incident in India Involving Google Maps
Three men tragically lost their lives in India when their taxi, guided by Google Maps, drove off an unfinished bridge. The men were en route to a wedding when the accident occurred at night, leading to their vehicle falling from the bridge. Local authorities discovered the car the following day, raising concerns about the accuracy of Google Maps in identifying safe routes.
Community Outrage and Google’s Response
Residents expressed outrage, blaming Google for not properly indicating the bridge's condition. A local official confirmed that the car was using Google Maps at the time of the accident. In response, a Google spokesperson extended condolences to the victims' families and stated that the company is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. This incident has reignited discussions about the reliability of navigation apps, especially in hazardous conditions.
History of Google Maps-Related Accidents
This is not the first time Google Maps has been implicated in fatal accidents. In 2022, a family in North Carolina filed a lawsuit against Google after their relative was directed toward a collapsed bridge. Similarly, a California woman sued Google in 2010 after being injured while following directions that led her to cross a busy highway without a crosswalk. These incidents highlight the potential dangers of relying solely on digital navigation tools, particularly in low visibility situations.