We ask much less for directions thanks to Google Maps, which is yet another example showing that technology is making life easier and easier. Gradually, more and more functions have filled the geolocation service and among them, a practical way to avoid fines… Let’s take a closer look.
The main purpose of fixed or mobile radars is to mitigate road accidents. And this is precisely the goal of Google with its geolocation application! To better understand the context, it is important to know that these radars are installed where there are the most accidents and where drivers drive at high speed. Their presence on the ground should therefore not irritate the motorist suspicious of the practice. That said, Google Maps gives us the ability to know the location of photo radars, which is a great way to avoid fines. Not only does the driver feel obliged to slow down, but he is also less exposed to the risk of accidents.
How to activate the radar warning (on Iphone or Android)?
The Google Maps app has the speed camera warning feature by default. At the opening, you can only see on the map points of interest such as shops, restaurants or police headquarters, but once you launch your route, Google Maps shows you the location of all the speed cameras you will encounter on your way.
- So start by defining a route. You should recognize species of pictograms in which you can see a camera. No icon? Then there is no radar in the route you have chosen.
If you see the icons, you can tap one of the speed cameras listed to learn more about it and get a view of the most recent information update. You can also expand the screen to know the precise location of the radar.
- When you start your journey, the app shows you the speed cameras and warns you as soon as you approach them, so you have time to slow down. In addition, Google Maps allows you to show you in real time your traffic speed.
Note that it is advisable to activate voice navigation because it is still better to be warned orally when approaching one of the radars. In any case, it is still important to respect speed limits and avoid bypassing speed cameras… for example, if they work even at night…
A function that can not be fully exploited in France but which remains useful
It should be noted, however, that in France, radar alarms do not comply with the law. Decree 2012-3 of 3 January 2012, related to road safety and entered into force on 5 January, stipulates that any service that offers geolocation and radar detection is illegal, as relayed by the newspaper Le Figaro. On the other hand, even in such a context, this kind of application remains useful to assist you when driving and increase your vigilance about dangerous areas. Indeed, the driver assistance and navigation functions are approved. Do not hesitate to use them!
The function is therefore still useful since you can always take advantage of the warning of dangerous areas (work zones, problematic traffic, bends, etc.). It is therefore beneficial for you since the app will allow you to stay alert to dangerous areas and slow down while respecting the limitations. Enough to encourage you to increase your vigilance. And with one stone two birds with one stone, it also means that there is a good chance that radars will be placed in these areas of potential danger. Indirectly, you are less likely to be fined.
The Google Maps trick does not suit you more than that to avoid the fine? You can always discover the bracelet method!
Of course, we always take care to respect the speed limits whether we use the Google Maps function or not. So think as much about your own good as that of others and above all, good luck!
