14 January 2024 , 10:34
869
0
Sat-navs will now automatically update short-term traffic changes - and stop sending drivers down closed roads.
It comes as the Government launches new measures to make sure drivers get accurate information from their sat-navs, and make the most of accurate real-time data. This is part of its new Plan For Drivers, where all Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) such as temporary speed limits or sudden road closures will be made digital, which will be set out today.
Until now, these short-term traffic measures were not automatically updated on digital systems such as sat navs, often not giving real-time information and misleading drivers. But from January 14, all important data - including the location of empty parking spots - will be found on drivers' sat-navs.
In a statement for the Department for Transport, Roads Minister Guy Opperman said: "This Government is on the side of drivers, which is why we're making travelling by road much easier. Everyone knows the frustrations of being sent down a closed road by your sat nav. By going digital with our traffic information, we're making sure that drivers have the very latest travel information to rely on.
Sat-navs are changing to make life easier for drivers (Getty Images)"This is part of our first package of measures from our Plan for Drivers to be set out today, coming after our record £8.3 billion investment to resurface local roads, the biggest ever increase in funding for local road improvements."
London flat for rent for £1,400 a month with bed tucked away in kitchen cupboard
It comes as an urgent fine warning has been issued over strict parking laws that could see drivers hit with £100 tickets for parking on the pavement. Football star Marcus Rashford picked up a £60 fine for a parking mishap in his £280,000 McLaren while meeting a teammate for lunch.