Crash Detection: Saving Lives or Causing Headaches?
What is Crash Detection?
Crash Detection is a feature installed on the iPhone 14 and all later models. This feature works by sending a signal to first responders through satellites after a sudden stop, such as a car crash.
False Alarms
Sheriff Jeff Smith of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone that while this feature can save lives, it doesn’t always trigger when it should. In fact, since June, the sheriff’s dispatchers have answered 16 SOS calls, but many of these alerts have turned out to be false alarms. According to Sheriff Smith, they have been getting more and more false alarms.
How Does Crash Detection Work?
When your iPhone senses a sudden stop, such as a red light or simply dropping your phone, it may think the user has gotten into a serious crash and dial for help. For example, Shayla Clark recently experienced this issue when she came to an abrupt stop at a light and her purse fell on the floor. Her phone mistakenly detected the sudden stop and dialed 911, alarming her with a loud noise and informing her that she had ten seconds to turn off her phone before it calls the police.
The Impact of False Alarms
Shayla had to convince the dispatcher that she wasn’t in an accident, which was a stressful and confusing experience. Sheriff Smith emphasizes that Shayla would not have been in legal trouble if the police had come to check on her, but the incident did raise concerns about the reliability of the feature.
What Can You Do to Prevent False Alarms?
To turn off Crash Detection, tap on the Settings app and then Emergency SOS. Scroll down where it says Call After Severe Crash, tap it, and then tap Turn Off. You can turn it back on at the same place.
Conclusion
While Crash Detection has the potential to save lives, it is important to be aware of its limitations and potential false alarms. Sheriff Smith emphasizes that they are not complaining about responding to false alarms, but rather trying to educate the public about why it happens and how to prevent it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I turn off Crash Detection?
A: To turn off Crash Detection, tap on the Settings app and then Emergency SOS. Scroll down where it says Call After Severe Crash, tap it, and then tap Turn Off.
Q: Can I still turn Crash Detection back on?
A: Yes, you can turn it back on by following the same steps and tapping Turn On.
Q: Will I get in trouble for a false alarm?
A: According to Sheriff Smith, if you experience a false alarm, you will not be in legal trouble. However, it is still important to take steps to prevent false alarms to avoid wasting the time of first responders.
Q: Why does my iPhone keep calling 911?
A: Crash Detection may be triggered if your iPhone senses a sudden stop, such as a red light or simply dropping your phone. If this happens, your phone may mistakenly detect the sudden stop and dial 911.
