How to report police sightings in Google Maps

How To
By published

Keep drivers updated by reporting police sightings on Google Maps

How to report traffic incidents on Google Maps
(Image credit: Shutterstock)

There used to be a feature in Google Maps that allowed you to report speed traps but that has now been removed. In its place is a new, wider-reaching police alert which can be used by motorists to alert other drivers of any incidents involving officers.

There could, for example, be a roadblock, police attending debris in the road or officers working at a crime scene. It could also be a speed trap, of course, but the idea is that you’re letting other people know to be even more careful or consider trying a different route.

1. Start a route

First, download or update Google Maps in either Apple’s App Store or Google Play on Android. Then input where you’re going from and your destination and start your journey.

2. Add a report

If you come across a police incident such as officers dealing with an emergency that is slowing traffic, tap the + icon.

3. Select Police

Now simply tap Police. As you do so, a note of the incident will be made on the map. You have a few seconds in which to change your mind.

4. Remove a report

You can tap your incident later — or any other incident you see — and let Google know if the incident is still active. If it's still there, tap Yes. If the issue has been resolved, tap No.

And there you go. You now know how to report police sightings in Google Maps. There are other features worth exploring too. Why not discover how to use Street View on Google Maps or how to check the weather for any location? You can also learn how to use Google Maps Live View.

David Crookes
David Crookes
Contributor

David Crookes is a freelance writer, reporter, editor and author. He has written for technology and gaming magazines including Retro Gamer, Web User, Micro Mart, MagPi, Android, iCreate, Total PC Gaming, T3 and Macworld. He has also covered crime, history, politics, education, health, sport, film, music and more, and been a producer for BBC Radio 5 Live.