GPS: What it can and can't do

Putting too much faith in GPS systems can lead you into trouble! The Global Positioning System (GPS) started out as a U.S. military application for guiding things like bombers and missiles and has become a must-have accessory for family road trips.These days, GPS technology is an option for most new cars and minivans, and hand-held units sell for less than $100. Given the convenience, price and ease of use of GPS, many drivers are abandoning paper maps entirely in favour of a glowing screen and a voice that politely tells them to "turn left in 300 metres" or "merge onto highway." Yet it seems that every week, there’s another story of someone getting profoundly lost following GPS instructions. The Global Positioning System is gaining a reputation for getting people stranded in random destinations. This can play as a huge deal, especially when the product malfunctions.

The most recent example is the case of Albert and Rita Chretien, the B.C. couple that went missing in Nevada. Incredibly, Rita Chretien was found alive after 49 days; but her husband, who left to go in search of help, has yet to be located. Police in Nevada say the Chretiens were likely steered off course by their GPS — they abandoned a high-traffic route for a lesser-known rural road and couldn’t find their way back.

This example shows how dangerous using a GPS can be and many law suits can be fired at the GPS company.


My Opinion :

I was actually unaware of these malfunctions of the GPS systems, and this is highly surprising. Overall I feel a shear sense of disappointment and I am astounded because of the situation with the lady listed above. I have lost a lot of respect for GPS systems as they are advertised to be highly safe, accurate, and effective, but obviously not. I'm surprised that companies aren't being sued for things like this and GPS products are still being sold. Overall this article was a real eye opener and completely changed my point of view on GPS products.