A tragic incident that occurred nearly a year ago in North Carolina has led to a new lawsuit against Google Maps. The family of Philip Paxson is accusing the navigation app of directing him to drive across a collapsed bridge, ultimately resulting in his death. According to CBS News, Paxson drowned last September while following directions on Google Maps on an “unfamiliar” route home from his daughter’s birthday party.
The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday, claims that Paxson was instructed by Google Maps to drive across Snow Creek Bridge. However, the bridge had collapsed in 2013 and had no artificial lighting. As a result, Paxson “drove off the unguarded edge of the bridge and crashed approximately twenty feet below.”
Paxson’s body was later discovered inside his overturned Jeep Gladiator. The lawsuit not only targets Google but also puts its parent company, Alphabet, in the hot seat. Additionally, two local companies responsible for maintaining the safety of the bridge are named in the suit for allegedly failing to provide barricades or warning signs.
It is worth noting that the road where the incident occurred is private and not maintained by the county. Attorney Larry Bendesky, in a statement, emphasized Paxson’s trust in Google Maps, which “cost him his life.” The lawsuit further includes evidence of community members contacting Google multiple times to alert them about the collapsed bridge.
After the lawsuit was filed, Paxson’s widow, Alicia Paxson, criticized Google for disregarding “concerned community voices” and expressed her desire to ensure that their voices are heard. The lawsuit seeks to hold Google accountable for the tragic consequences of their alleged negligence.
This lawsuit highlights the importance of accurate and up-to-date information provided by navigation apps, especially in areas with potential hazards or road closures. Users should remain cautious and use common sense when following navigational directions, especially if the route seems unfamiliar or potentially unsafe.
Ultimately, it is crucial for technology companies like Google to take seriously the concerns raised by the community and strive to ensure the safety of their users. Losing a loved one in such a tragic and preventable manner is a devastating experience, and the Paxson family’s lawsuit serves as a reminder that accountability and responsibility should always be prioritized.
