Google introduces AI-powered feature to reduce road accidents in India 

The Capital News 

In a bid to reduce road accidents in India, Google has introduced a new feature designed to prevent certain types of road mishaps and enhance travel safety. This innovative feature, now available on Google Maps, aims to detect and alert users about various incidents that may occur on the road.

The lack of road signs and the unfamiliarity with new roads often contribute to accidents. This feature will be particularly useful in alerting users to potential dangers such as crashes, congestion, roadworks, lane closures, stalled vehicles, and objects on the road.

By providing advance warnings, users can travel more safely. To access this feature, users can follow these simple steps: Open Google Maps on your phone and enter your destination. Start navigation and swipe up from the bottom bar that displays your route information. Click on the “Add a Report” button under the map.

Select the type of incident you want to report from the list of options. Confirm the report to notify other users of the danger. Powered by artificial intelligence, this new feature also reduces the use of narrow roads for driving four-wheeler vehicles. Google Maps uses AI to estimate road width and assess potential hazards.

With the help of satellite images and satellite views, Google detects dangers on the road and issues warnings, significantly reducing the risk of accidents by predicting potential threats ahead.

In 2022, India recorded an alarming number of road accidents: 53 accidents and 19 deaths every hour. On average, there were 1,264 accidents and 42 deaths per day, according to a report released by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways in 2023. Despite these figures, the average number of accidents and deaths continues to rise