Navigation Apps : Trust But Verify

1.???? Recent incidents such as a car plunging into a canal in Kerala, reportedly due to following directions from a navigation app remind us that technology, although advanced, isn't infallible Navigating with?any navigation app?can be incredibly helpful, but it’s essential to use it wisely and stay cautious to prevent accidents. Here are some tips for my friends behind the wheels:-

(a)????? Verify Routes Before Driving.

????????? (i)?????? Double-Check Directions. Always review the route provided by ?app before you start driving. Ensure it aligns with your intended destination.

????????? (ii)????? Look at the Big Picture. Zoom out on the map to see the overall ????????? route. This helps you understand major turns and intersections.

(b)????? Stay Alert While Driving.

????????? (i)?????? Don’t Blindly Follow Directions. Even if the app suggests a ????????? turn, use your common sense. If something seems unsafe (like a narrow road ? or an unfamiliar area), reconsider the route.

????????? (ii)????? Pay Attention to Road Signs. Don’t rely solely on the app. Keep an ?eye out for road signs, especially when approaching intersections or ????????? unfamiliar roads.

(c)????? Use Voice Navigation.

????????? (i)?????? Hands-Free Guidance. Enable voice navigation so that you don’t need ? to look at the screen while driving.

????????? (ii)????? Listen Carefully. Pay attention to voice prompts and upcoming turns. ???Sometimes, the app might not display the map correctly, but the voice ??? guidance can still guide you accurately.

(d)????? Be Cautious Near Water Bodies.

????????? (i)?????? Know Your Surroundings. If you’re near a canal, river, or any water ????????? body, be extra cautious. Water bodies may not always be clearly visible from ?? the road.

????????? (ii)????? Avoid Blind Turns. When near water, avoid sudden turns unless ????????? you’re sure of the road ahead.

(e)????? Weather Conditions Matter.

????????? (i)?????? Rain and Visibility. Rain can reduce visibility. Drive slower and be ????? cautious, especially during heavy downpours. Be aware of the weather ????forecast, as severe weather can affect road safety and navigation.

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????????? (ii)????? Slippery Roads. Wet roads can be slippery. Adjust your speed ????????? accordingly.

(f)?????? Avoid Unfamiliar Routes at Night.

????????? (i)?????? Daylight Is Safer. Stick to familiar routes during night time. Unfamiliar ??roads can be riskier when visibility is low.

(g)????? Keep Emergency Numbers Handy.

????????? (i)?????? Be Prepared. Save emergency numbers (police, fire, ambulance) in ????your phone. In case of an accident, you can call for help immediately.

(h)????? Share Your Location.

????????? (i)?????? Share Trip Details. Use app’s feature to share your trip ????? details with a trusted friend or family member so that they can track your progress and assist if needed.

(i)?????? Regularly Update the App.

????????? (i)?????? Software Updates. Keep your navigation ?app updated. New ????????? versions often include bug fixes and improved accuracy.

(j)?????? Common Sense Prevails.

????????? (i)?????? Trust Your Instincts. If something feels off, don’t hesitate to stop and ? re-evaluate. Safety comes first.

????????? (ii)????? Remember, technology is a tool, but your judgment and awareness are ??? equally crucial.

(k)????? Report Map Errors

????????? (i)?????? Contribute to Safety. If you encounter a map error or unsafe direction,? report it to navigation app. This helps improve the service and can prevent ? future incidents.

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2.?? By following these tips, I feel that drivers can enhance their safety and make the most out of the navigation apps without falling victim to potential navigational pitfalls. Remember, technology is a tool meant to assist, not replace, your judgment and attentiveness on the road. Stay alert, stay informed, and drive safely.