The “Kia Challenge” on TikTok is Killing Children in Upstate New York
TikTok is taking over the social media world, and one of the many reasons this platform is so popular is its many viral trends. But as many parents are quickly discovering, many of these viral trends can be incredibly dangerous. One of the most notable recent trends on the platform is known as the “Kia Challenge,” and it is leading to the deaths of children in upstate New York. But what exactly is the Kia Challenge, and why is it so dangerous? Could it potentially lead to personal injury lawsuits?
What is the Kia Challenge?
The Kia Challenge is really quite simple: Participants follow relatively easy instructions to hotwire and steal a Kia vehicle. They upload their exploits onto TikTok… and that’s pretty much it. The concern is that TikTok seems to be allowing users to upload clear instructions on how to hotwire Kias with nothing more than a USB cable. Local authorities have admitted that certain Kia models are “very easy” to steal in this manner. Another concern is that the most common participants of this viral trend are small children and teens who are not legally allowed to drive. This leads to some extremely dangerous situations.
Kia Challenge Leaves Four Teens Dead in Upstate New York
On October 25th of 2022, it was reported that four teens had lost their lives after participating in the Kia Challenge. Six teens followed the instructions and used a USB cable to hotwire a Kia Sportage. After taking the vehicle for a joyride, they crashed. This crash resulted in the deaths of four teens between the ages of 14 and 19. The driver recovered and was charged with multiple offenses after being released from hospital. Another teen survived and was eventually taken out of intensive care. Upstate New York police point out that Kia thefts have risen sharply across the nation in conjunction with this social media trend.
Can I Sue TikTok for Deadly Viral Trends?
So far, TikTok seems quite impervious to lawsuits filed in connection with deadly viral trends. The prospect of suing the social media company showed promise when one mother sued for the death of her child after she took part in the “Blackout Challenge.” This particular viral trend involved choking one’s self until losing consciousness. However, the case against TikTok was dismissed in this particular situation, suggesting that courts in the United States are not willing to hold TikTok accountable for the actions of its users just yet.
Where Can I Find a Personal Injury Attorney in Upstate New York?
If you’ve been searching the upstate New York area for a qualified, experienced personal injury attorney, look no further than The Stanley Law Offices, LLP. Over the years, we have guided numerous plaintiffs toward positive legal outcomes. If your child has been harmed after taking part in a viral social media trend, you may have the opportunity to sue the tech company that facilitated this dangerous situation. Book your consultation today to review your legal options and determine the best route forward.
Sources
- https://news.yahoo.com/car-crash-killed-four-teens-203819738.html
- https://www.nbcnews.com/news/judge-dismisses-suit-alleging-tiktok-blackout-challenge-caused-girls-d-rcna54208
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