Modern technology evolves so quickly that most people cannot keep track of the latest innovations. The much-talked-about move to a faster, better 5G cellular network for phones and other wireless devices is finally here. The problem is that wireless carriers are shutting down the old 3G networks that many cars depend on for essential safety features. If your vehicle is one of the models not being provided with a software or hardware upgrade, you may be left without a connection to the internet.
With an internet connection, carmakers introduced safety features, such as automatic crash notifications and monitoring systems, for parents of teenage drivers. Drivers can also check if their vehicle’s doors are locked or unlocked or start the engine remotely.
As recently as 2019, carmakers were manufacturing new vehicles with 3G systems, technology that would soon be obsolete. Now, there are car owners who stand to lose their internet connection and therefore the safety features dependent on it, permanently.
Which Vehicle Make and Models Are Affected?
According to Consumer Reports, these companies have no plans to upgrade connectivity on their vehicles:
- Infiniti
- Lexus
- Nissan
- Toyota
Honda sent out update reminders to vehicle owners, but if you did not respond before February 22, 2022, you might have to pay to upgrade your hardware or lose certain features. Hardware upgrades start at $900.
GM vehicles using OnStar also required an update by February 2022. OnStar began sending out updates in October 2021, and vehicle owners who updated their software will still be able to connect to OnStar services.
Stellantis, the company that owns Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, Maserati, and Ram, will no longer provide automatic crash notification or SOS. Remote services for certain vehicles will be offered for a monthly fee depending on how much data the driver uses.
Hyundai’s and Genesis’ newer vehicles will receive free software updates but other older vehicles that do not will lose their Bluelink services on December 31, 2022.
Mitsubishi owners benefit from the brand’s foresight in never having adopted 3G technology. Their crash notification and SOS system uses 4G networks and are not affected. The same is true for vehicles that operate through the driver’s cellphone in the event of a crash, such as Ford and Mazda.
What if I am Injured in a Car Accident in New Jersey?
New Jersey law governing car accidents follows the principle of comparative negligence. If you were more than 50 percent at fault for the accident, you may not pursue a compensation claim. If the other driver caused the crash entirely, they are liable for your losses, including medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage. If you were partially at fault, then the number of damages you are awarded will be reduced by the amount of fault. For instance, if you were 20 percent responsible for the accident, your total award is reduced by 20 percent.
In New Jersey, there is a limit of two years from the car accident date to file a personal injury claim. Consulting with an experienced lawyer can help you clarify your legal options.
Egg Harbor Township Car Accident Lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm Can Determine if You Are Eligible for Compensation After a Collision
If you have been injured in a crash caused by the negligence of another party, you may be eligible for compensation. Our Egg Harbor Township car accident lawyers at the D’Amato Law Firm will investigate the accident and fight to hold the responsible party accountable. Call us at 609-926-3300 or complete our online form to schedule a free consultation. Located in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, we serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Atlantic City, Linwood, Galloway Township, Cape May, Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Ocean City, and Woodbury.