Using an embedded cellular system, GPS and a direct link to emergency medical and law enforcement agencies, live advisors can get the appropriate help needed to the scene, even if the vehicle involved doesn’t have OnStar.
Drivers in Los Angeles made more “Good Samaritan” calls last year to report other motorists in trouble, according to OnStar, the telematics arm of General Motors said today.
Using anonymous subscriber interaction data, OnStar found that of the 10 largest U.S. Metropolitan Statistical Areas, Los Angeles had the most Good Samaritan calls in 2010 by a wide margin, with nearly 900 more calls than Chicago, which came in second.
A Good Samaritan call occurs when an OnStar subscriber uses his or her live advisor access to report another motorist’s problem on the road, whether it’s a vehicle collision, flat tire or any other situation requiring immediate assistance.
Drivers in metro Los Angeles tallied 2,449 Good Samaritan calls, nearly 900 more calls than the next major metropolitan city, Chicago. The 2010 rankings for America’s top 10 cities:
1. Los Angeles: 2,449
2. Chicago: 1,540
3. Houston: 1,299
4. Dallas: 1,113
5. New York: 957
6. Atlanta: 942
7. Philadelphia: 830
8. Boston: 638
9. Miami: 217
10. Washington, D.C.: 115
“Los Angeles residents deserve a huge pat on the back for their part in reporting actionable situations to our advisors, and ultimately helping to ensure many drivers’ safety,” said Terry Inch, director of Subscriber Services. “We’re all familiar with the adage of helping one’s neighbor, but L.A. has really taken that phrase to mean ‘helping your fellow motorist.’ ”
