After three kids died in car crash while using Snapchat, US court says family members can sue company


The suit, filed by the parents of the two passengers, said there had been at least three other crashes of vehicles whose occupants tracked and posted their speeds with Snapchat devices. — Reuters

Three US youngsters were killed in 2017 when their car, traveling at 113mph (181kmph), flew off a road in southeastern Wisconsin and slammed into a tree. Just before the crash, one of the youths had opened the Speed Filter on Snapchat to record their velocity and share it with others.

On May 4, a US federal appeals court said family members could sue Snap Inc for marketing a product that allegedly encouraged dangerous driving. While the California-based social media platform warns against using the Speed Filter while driving, Snapchat rewards users with trophies and “social recognition” for pictures they post, and according to the suit, many of its users believe the platform will reward them for recording speeds of 100mph (160kmph) or more.

Unlock 30% Savings on Ad-Free Access Now!

Monthly Plan

RM13.90/month
RM9.73 only

Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters.

Annual Plan

RM12.33/month
RM8.63/month

Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters.

1 month

Free Trial

For new subscribers only


Cancel anytime. No ads. Auto-renewal. Unlimited access to the web and app. Personalised features. Members rewards.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Others Also Read


Want to listen to full audio?

Unlock unlimited access to enjoy personalise features on the TheStar.com.my

Already a member? Log In