Google Maps Tips: How correct is the blind trust on Google Maps? What should you do so that an accident like Bareilly does not happen to you?

Recently, a tragic incident in Bareilly has raised questions about the usefulness of Google Maps and the potential dangers it can cause. Three friends were driving by looking at Google Maps, but their car climbed onto an incomplete bridge, which was about to end ahead. The car fell off the bridge and all three died. Earlier, a similar incident had occurred in Kerala, where the car of two doctors fell into a river while following the route shown by Google Maps and they drowned. These incidents not only raise questions about the way Google Maps works but also show that blind trust in technology can be dangerous.

How does Google Maps work?

Google Maps is a complex system, which provides information about routes through GPS (Global Positioning System), satellite imagery, real-time traffic data, and user updates. Its algorithm decides which will be the shortest and easiest route. But one problem in this is that this data is not completely updated. Roads on which work is going on or which are incomplete, are also sometimes included in the navigation.

Google Maps also has to depend on "crowdsourced data" i.e. people's input. If correct information is not given about a route, then the algorithm can ignore it. For example, if the information about an incomplete bridge or a closed road is not updated in the system, then Google Maps can consider it safe and operational. Because there is no traffic on that route, it feels that it will be easy to go from here.

What if not Google Maps?

If you are going on an unknown route, then it is not right to depend only on Google Maps. For this, you can do these measures-

Take information from local people: On reaching an unknown area, ask the local people about the routes. Choose the most correct option by combining the suggestion of Google Maps and local information.

Pay attention to road signs: Do not forget to read the signs and boards on the road during the journey. These are often more accurate than Google Maps.

Use offline navigation apps: Apart from Google Maps, there are some offline navigation apps too, you can use them. These apps sometimes give more accurate and detailed information.

How to use Google Maps correctly?

If you are using Google Maps, then follow these precautions-

Use satellite view: Before starting navigation, see the satellite view of Google Maps. With this, you can estimate the geographical conditions of the route.

Do not depend only on the audio guide: While following the audio guide of Google Maps, it is also important to keep an eye on the surrounding situation.

Cross-verify: If the route seems suspicious, then it is necessary to cross-verify it.

Is there any alternative to Google Maps?

Of course, Google Maps is the most popular navigation app, but its alternatives are also available-

Waze: This app is a part of Google, but it provides real-time traffic updates and accident alerts in a better way.

Mappls: This app of Map My India is useful for navigation and is more accurate in many places.

Apple Maps: If you are an iPhone user, then this can be a good option.

Last point: Caution is the best protection!

Technology has made our lives easier, but it is our responsibility to use it correctly. It is very important to be cautious while using Google Maps and pay attention to the situation around you. Such incidents teach us that blind trust in technology can prove fatal. The incidents caused by Google Maps have raised many serious questions. It is essential to be cautious while using technology and use other options.