A series of errors in Google Maps directions eventually led to the death of a man after he was told to cross a collapsed bridge, and his family filed a lawsuit against the company.
A new lawsuit highlights the dangers of all Google mapping technologies accused of causing deaths due to failure to update maps properly.
Phillip Paxson died at age 47 in 2022 after following Google Maps directions to cross the Snowy Creek Bridge, the Hickory Daily Record reported. The bridge is believed to have collapsed nearly ten years ago.
Alicia Paxson, the widow of the deceased, filed a lawsuit in Wake County, North Carolina, accusing Google, its parent company Alphabet, and local businessmen who own the bridge and adjacent land of negligence and liability for the death.
Spokesperson Alicia Paxson announced the lawsuit to reporters at the point where the bridge was reinforced, preventing traffic from passing.
The spokesman said: “We have heard suggestions that cost may be a factor in repairing the bridge, but as you can see minor repairs can be made.”
Google was reportedly notified of the bridge collapse, but the company was allegedly negligent and did not update its maps at the time.
Paxson said she hopes the bridge doesn't hurt others.
It's worth noting that Apple Maps, which was derided when it launched in 2012 but has been improved over time, correctly shows where bridge breaks are still marked as acceptable in Google Maps.
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| On the left are Google Maps, and on the right are Apple Maps |