The Best Apps to Beat Traffic

Sitting in traffic on an already-long commute is nobody’s cup of tea. Imagine being notified of accidents before you start your commute so you can beat traffic when it’s at a standstill. Fortunately, you can do all this and more with leading smartphone apps! Here are some we recommend.

Waze

Available on both the App Store and Google Play, Waze does two essential traffic-related functions you’ll wonder how you ever lived without. First, it gives you reliable driving directions, which is nice if your car isn’t equipped with GPS navigation. Second, it provides up-to-date traffic data, including information about your route, how fast you’re driving, and more.

Best of all, Waze shares road information with other users who also share their data. This ensures complete, accurate information up to the minute, so you’re never left driving in the dark. There is a downside, however: Because Waze relies on information from other users, it isn’t always updated in areas where there aren’t many drivers using the app. Still, it’s a good thing to have if you like the idea of community-sourced information. Plus, you’ll be contributing to its accuracy!

INRIX

A simple traffic app that provides real-time traffic data, including parking information and accident updates, INRIX uses a cloud platform called Autotelligent to optimize your route and keep you safe. It uses all available information to calculate your estimated time of arrival based on current traffic conditions, and it can also predict future traffic conditions. When you want an app that can proactively make decisions for you or that can create daily itineraries of upcoming drives, INRIX is the one to beat.

One of the app’s most useful features is its ability to estimate your travel time. This allows you to wait or leave early depending on road conditions, taking the guesswork out of your daily commute. INRIX does suggest your leave time based on your preferred route, however, which may not be the quickest route.

Google Maps

Considered to be one of the best traffic and navigation apps in the world, Google Maps gives you the superior experience you want no matter your commuting method. Not only can it reroute your commute based on traffic delays, it also provides walking directions and bus route information, all at your fingertips!

Google Maps can help you find pit stops along your route, including coffee shops and gas stations. In addition to traffic updates and exit guidance, Google Maps provides offline navigation without an internet connection. You can switch to Street View to view indoor imagery for local businesses, check transit schedules, and share reviews to help others discover the best places in town. Having multiple traffic-related apps can be helpful, but if you want to download just one, make sure it’s Google Maps.

With so many handy smartphone apps available, you never have to get lost or stuck in traffic again. Download one of these options for free, and familiarize yourself with its features to enjoy the smoothest, most stress-free commute you’ve ever experienced.