Google Maps and Waze users in Illinois will soon receive alerts about police locations while driving.
Notifications Directly on the Phone
Starting in the coming weeks, these applications will automatically notify users of police presence when officers are parked on the roadside, providing real-time information through their smartphones or via Android Auto and CarPlay, according to Ziare.
This initiative is part of a broader effort to promote road safety, particularly in light of the Scott's Law, which requires drivers to slow down and change lanes when emergency vehicles, including police cars, are stopped on the road with their lights flashing.
By integrating police location data into Google Maps and Waze, drivers will have adequate warning to slow down and comply with the law, helping to protect emergency personnel and reduce accidents caused by sudden braking or negligent driving.
Report Incidents and Road Work
In addition to police alerts, both Google Maps and Waze have rolled out significant updates to make driving experiences safer and more predictable.
For instance, Google Maps now allows drivers to report incidents like accidents, road work, or disabled vehicles directly from Android Auto and CarPlay, a feature that was previously available only on mobile devices since 2019.
Waze has also improved safety alerts, providing users with real-time notifications about changing speed limits and lane merges. These updates are designed to give drivers ample time to adjust their driving style, thereby reducing the risk of abrupt stops that often lead to accidents.
