The partnership involves configuring Waze and Google Maps to alert users when they should slow down or change lanes to safely pass an emergency vehicle is stopped on a roadside, KFVS reports. The messages, initiated by the Illinois State Police (ISP), also will convey warnings about potential traffic disruptors, such disabled vehicles, roadway debris and crashes. In a press release, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker stated, “The tragic accidents that have injured and killed Illinois State Police officers cannot become an expected hazard of the job. Illinois drivers — slow down, pay attention, and help our law enforcement officers stay safe while they save lives.” Two ISP troopers have been killed since 2019 in “move-over crashes,” and dozens more injured. ISP is among the first state police agencies to develop such a notification system.
A news release from the governor’s office has more information about the notification system.