Death by GPS: Study finds blindly following navigation can be fatal

Scientists from the USA and Bremen have investigated how and why people suffer “death by GPS”–and what this actually means. Ultimately, the study aims to make navigation systems safer and help prevent such tragedies.

Classic examples of deaths caused by GPS include tourists who stubbornly follow the instructions of their navigation device and end up falling into the ocean or dying of thirst in the desert–hence the nickname “death by GPS.” It’s also worth noting that navigation often relies not only on GPS signals but also on other services, including WLAN.

Navigation devices can cause accidents simply by distracting the driver. In one case, a driver ran over a cyclist while zooming in on the GPS map. Incorrect or misunderstood navigation instructions can lead to collisions with other cars, pedestrians, or cyclists.

Surprisingly, researchers found many cases in which drivers followed their GPS and ended up on the wrong side of the road. In one instance, the person drove about 29 miles on wrong side of the road because they blindly followed their device.

Problems also arise when the GPS doesn’t account for the vehicle’s capabilities. For example, an off-road vehicle might handle a rough shortcut, while sports cars get stuck. Weather also plays a key role in navigation safety, researchers found.

The study identified 52 fatalities and a number of serious injuries, though more than half of the accidents didn’t result in a death.

Take the time to read the study summary before setting off on your next journey with a navigation device.