With the advent of driving apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze, drivers can now be notified about upcoming speed cameras and even random breath testing (RBT) checkpoints. Although this feature can enhance road awareness, some countries—such as Germany, France, and Switzerland—have taken a hard line, prohibiting these apps from displaying enforcement locations. But what’s the impact in countries where such warnings remain accessible, like Australia? Are these apps inadvertently encouraging drivers to break the law?

A recent study published in Safety Science delves into this complex issue. The research indicates that while this technology can sometimes give drivers a false sense of security, it can also contribute to safer driving behaviors.

How Awareness of Enforcement Affects Road Safety

To gain insights into how these apps influence driver behavior, researchers conducted focus groups and interviews with 58 drivers in Queensland. Participants shared varying perspectives on how they use the alerts to either follow or deviate from traffic laws.

One participant noted, “If I know it’s coming up, I’ll put my phone down.” They acknowledged using this awareness as a reminder to avoid distractions when approaching enforcement zones but admitted to picking up their phone again afterward.

Similarly, another driver mentioned, “If I am driving on a country road and there is a speed camera, I would probably slow down for the camera and then speed up again once I’m past it.” This selective rule compliance suggests that while drivers might momentarily adjust their behavior, it doesn’t always translate to consistent, lawful driving.

For some, though, these apps encourage safer driving by providing real-time speed limit notifications. Waze, for instance, displays the current speed limit, helping drivers maintain safe speeds. One user shared, “I’m a bit careful, just double-checking I’m within the limit,” suggesting that visibility of limits can lead to more consistent compliance with traffic rules.

Risky Driving Behaviors Encouraged by Driving Apps

However, some participants admitted to behaviors that increase risk. The constant screen-checking that apps like Waze or Google Maps encourage can distract drivers. One driver candidly admitted, “I know it’s wrong, but I post traffic updates while driving.” Others confessed to quickly interacting with the app after passing a speed camera, actions that increase the risk of accidents.

Another concerning revelation came from a driver who admitted using these apps to avoid DUI enforcement, stating, “It’s especially helpful if I’m coming home from a party.” This remark highlights that some drivers may exploit these apps to avoid consequences when they’re not in a state to drive safely.

The study also revealed that these apps could foster a sense of invincibility for some users. “I probably feel slightly more invincible, which is probably not a good thing,” one driver admitted. These perceptions can lead to a higher frequency of risky driving practices, particularly in areas drivers assume to be “unmonitored.”

The Double-Edged Sword of Driving Apps for Road Safety

Road fatalities in Australia have been climbing, largely driven by behaviors like speeding and distracted driving. On the positive side, these apps remind drivers of enforcement measures, discouraging certain rule-breaking activities where monitoring is expected. But on the flip side, some users manipulate these features to strategically dodge enforcement. Additionally, while Waze can flag some checkpoints, the app can’t capture every police activity, nor can it guarantee up-to-date speed camera locations. This imperfect information can sometimes lead to unexpected encounters with law enforcement.

Weighing the Benefits and Risks of Driving Apps

The challenge lies in balancing the potential benefits of these apps with their risks. Traffic enforcement isn’t about instilling fear only in certain spots; it’s meant to promote widespread, consistent adherence to traffic laws. For Australia, where road deaths have been alarmingly high, it’s essential to cultivate a road culture where everyone commits to safety.

Ultimately, while driving apps have become useful tools, they should not replace a driver’s responsibility to adhere to traffic laws. Awareness alone can be beneficial, but using these tools with respect for the law is essential to fostering a safer driving environment.