Technology has unquestionably had an exponential effect on the legal industry. Every year, attorneys discuss how technology has transformed the practice of law. It was not long ago that we discussed the shift from paper to computers. Now we’re discussing the effects of “smart” technology and social media. While it has always influenced our profession, technological progress is having a greater impact now than ever before.

Technology has the power to save lives. Driverless vehicles, intelligent robotics in medicine and science and many other technologically advanced products reduce the rate of human error that in turn reduces injuries and lost lives. This is of course a welcomed change, and companies implementing these advancements should be applauded so long as they do so methodically and in a manner that keeps the public’s safety the foremost priority. Yet, despite these significant advances, error will unfortunately not completely disappear. Catastrophic personal injury and wrongful death litigation will continue, but, as will be the case in many areas of the law, the frequency and types of cases will change.