Technology And The New Ways To Prove Fault
Technology has had a huge impact on our lives in many different ways. From improving the way we communicate to changing the way we work and play, there is a lot out there that helps simplify our lives. What many don’t realize, however, is that technology has creeped into much more within our lives than most could guess. And when it comes to personal injury law and accident cases, technology is present in a big way.
There are numerous ways that technology impacts accident law, and understanding some of the basic points can help you see more clearly just why it deserves your attention in a big way. There are pros and cons here, and both impact accident law and personal injury cases.
Increased Risks
First, it’s worth touching on the obvious. From texting to Facebook to Pokémon Go, people use their mobile devices while on the go. But when these things are done while driving, it becomes a major distraction that actually increases the risks on Florida roads. Just looking at a simple two-word text is all it takes to distract you long enough to create an accident. In short, technology has plenty of benefits, but it’s added some risks to our travels as well.Proving Fault
However, despite those increased risks, technology has also made it much easier for authorities, courts, insurance companies, and personal injury lawyers to determine fault in accidents. Proving fault involves showing that someone acted in a negligent or reckless manner, and with today’s technology it’s easier than ever to do so. Here are some of the ways technology plays a major part in personal injury law.- Mobile Device History – This is one of the most common ways of determining fault that is used today. By obtaining mobile device history, it’s easy to show courts what occurred leading up to the accident. From phone calls to texts to tweets to checking Facebook, it’s all there in the device history and can quickly determine if distracted driving occurred.
- Video – We live in an interconnected age, and cameras are everywhere, whether you like it or not. In most Florida areas, security cameras may be present and could show a view of the road where the accident occurred. They could make it easier to determine what occurred.
- Black Box Data – Today, all semi-trucks and most modern vehicles have data recorders in them similar to those on aircraft. These data recorders can show things like speed, braking information, turning info, and more. Compiled properly, the information can be used to determine if unsafe driving led to an accident.
Brian O. Sutter has been Board Certified in Florida Workers’ Compensation since 1990 and re-certified in 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010 and 2015.