CAR ACCIDENT: Utah District Judge Dismisses Google from Car Crash Suit

June 23, 2011

Los Angeles- A Utah District Court Judge has dismissed Google from a car accident lawsuit filed by a user of Google Maps.

Third District Judge Deno Himonas released his decision on May, stating that Google cannot be named as defendant for the January 2009 car-pedestrian crash case. The court dismissed Google from any liability occurring from the plaintiff’s use of Google Maps, according to reports.

Reports said Himonas explained that Google is protected by the First Amendment and cannot be held responsible for the victim's injuries.

Lauren Rosenberg, the plaintiff, and her attorney are considering to appeal the Utah district court's decision. The car driver, Patrick Harwood, is also named as a defendant in the lawsuit, reports said.

As stated in the lawsuit, Rosenberg was following Google maps directions from 96 Daly Ave. to 1710 Prospector Ave. in Park City in January 2009. While walking on Deer Valley Road, she was hit by Harwood's car. She suffered multiple bone fractures due to the accident, according to reports.

Reports said Rosenberg filed the lawsuit last summer and contested Google's failure to provide safety warning on its maps. She claimed that Harwood is also liable for her injuries.

Critics have commented that Google Maps display warning on a phone's screen. It reads, "Use caution- This route may be missing sidewalks or pedestrian paths."

Google declined to give comment on the court's recent decision.