Google Maps introduces Police Activity Alerts for safer driving in a US state

Google Maps will soon display real-time police activity in one US state, thanks to a partnership with the Illinois State Police (ISP). This collaboration aims to enhance driver safety and awareness while promoting compliance with the state’s “Move Over” law.

Currently, Google Maps provides user-generated reports for alerts about traffic incidents. Now, with this new collaboration, police officers will report their activities directly to provide more accurate and timely information to drivers. This will include updates on traffic stops, accidents, and other roadside incidents.

When an officer reports an incident or activity, the information will be sent to Google Cloud, which will then share it with Google Maps users. As drivers go towards a location where police are present, they will see specific icons on their map indicating these situations.

The ISP explained that this new feature will improve awareness of police activity, making it easier for drivers to navigate safely around emergency situations.

However, it’s important to note that while Google Maps will display police locations, it will not include reports of speed traps which users can still report on their own.

The Police Activity Alerts feature is expected to roll out soon, enhancing the Google Maps experience for Illinois drivers in the US. It could be available in more states.