In the trucking industry, satellite-based Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) technologies are used for precise position and load status reporting, calculating ETAs, route guidance and fuel tax mileage reporting. These technologies can significantly reduce operating costs, facilitate "just in time" manufacturing and delivery without the need to maintain large inventories, and improve cargo security. Many commercial and public fleets are turning to satellite-based tracking technologies for tracking and coordination of vehicles, untethered trailers and other assets. LEGAL ISSUES FOR COMPANIES AND AGENCIES THAT USE GPS-BASED NAVIGATION AND POSITION TECHNOLOGIESĬompanies and public agencies that are using, or would like to use this technology, face a host of legal issues. Because of our resources in guiding clients involved with this emerging technology, we can assist business executives in this process in a logical and cost-effective fashion.
With proper evaluation, planning and action, companies can identify these issues and, if necessary, take steps to reduce risks in a timely manner. It does, however, give rise to certain legal issues and, in some cases, certain legal risks unique to the technology.įor obvious reasons, the legal issues in this area depend on numerous factors, including the precise commercial applications, business operations and markets involved. Fortunately, this technology does not present insurmountable legal obstacles that will prevent its further development and widespread commercial application. End users range from small municipalities to international shipping fleets. There are many different markets for GPS-based location technologies at various levels, including OEMs, system integrators, value-added resellers, etc., each with its own unique risks and business models. When coupled with terrestrial or satellite communications systems, such as low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, GPS-based technology gives companies the additional capability to precisely answer the question "where are my assets at all times?" Because of this capability, GPS-based location technologies are being used for dispatching, fleet routing, fixed and mobile asset tracking, and inventory management. The ability of GPS-based technology to provide an instant answer to "where am I on earth?" has tremendous commercial utility, particularly in navigation, agriculture, real time surveying and precision machine control. Many companies are developing or adopting satellite navigation and location technologies, such as those that rely on the Department of Defense's GPS (Global Positioning System) satellites.
0 kommentar(er)
