Research shows that wearable fitness or activity trackers can motivate us to move more. Data suggests that wearing a tracker encourages us to increase our daily steps, walking up to 40 minutes more on a daily basis compared to those who do not wear an activity tracker. In addition to this data, more than a quarter of UK adults own an exercise tracker with a third of those in possession wearing theirs every single day. With the collection of a significant amount of data on our activity levels and locations, we look at how a fitness tracking watch can potentially unlock evidence in personal injury cases.
What do fitness trackers do?
Fitness trackers fall into two categories, portable wearable devices and fitness apps accessed through smartphones and computers. They can record data on how the body responds to exercise including measuring and monitoring heart rate, blood pressure, body composition as well as location, sleeping patterns, nutritional information and recording of fitness goals and milestones.
What is the link between fitness trackers and personal injury claims?
Fitness trackers and digital evidence may also play a role in the case of personal injury claims. If a person has been injured while exercising, an activity tracker can contain valuable information that can be compiled as evidence.
For cyclists involved in accidents, apps such as Strava can also demonstrate excellent data including speed, location information and point of collision.
How may data from fitness trackers be used?
During a personal injury claim, medical experts examine the injured party to determine the impact the injury has on the person’s life. With accurate data now available through fitness trackers and apps, this can be beneficial when assessing the effect the injury has had in comparison to pre-injury data. Such data can be supportive of medical claims, particularly where certain types of injuries can be difficult to prove. The fitness tracker data can be useful in showing reduced mobility after an accident has occurred such as reduced running or cycling or even reduced mobility at work, particularly in those who regularly log into apps or use their wearable trackers. It can also show disruptive sleep patterns perhaps due to pain or anxiety following an accident.
Can fitness trackers be used against you in personal injury cases?
There is always the possibility that the data can be used against you in a personal injury case. For example, it may show that you were cycling at a much faster speed than you initially thought. While fitness trackers may be helpful in your personal injury case, it is important to note that this data can also be used against you, particularly if accessed by insurance companies who may look at the data and identify trends to support their case.
If you have been injured as a result of a road traffic accident, speak to our personal injury solicitors for further advice on the claims process. Call us on 028 9038 1024 or email enquiries@rpcrawfordsolicitors.com.
