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I-75 Backed Up? No Problem For Newest GPS Devices

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 6, 2008

As a fiery crash left long lines of motorists stuck on I-75 Wednesday, others were alerted about the problem and could zip around the road blockage hassle free.

The difference? Lucky drivers had new generation GPS-enabled cell phones and navigation devices in their vehicles that provide live traffic data. The most convenient systems bring to life a dream of drivers everywhere. They sound out alarms about traffic blockages miles ahead and plot a detour.

The services aren't free. They're subscription products that drivers can add to their GPS gadgets or phones.

The three largest GPS device companies all offer traffic services: Garmin, TomTom and Magellan. Verizon Wireless and other cell phone companies offer it on GPS-enabled phones, although drivers must have the navigation program running on their phone for alerts to work.

For consumers, it's worth researching the coverage areas for the traffic services. With some systems, there are gaps in rural areas.

Here's how subscription GPS traffic services work:

•Customers with a GPS device buy a subscription to a live traffic information service, typically through the company that made the GPS. Garmin's service, for example, costs about $50 a year and is available on premium GPS models.

•The GPS company gathers traffic information from states and highway patrol systems and transmits the data through local FM radio networks.

•A customer's GPS constantly monitors its own position and "listens" for live traffic problems relevant to where it is or the route ahead.

•If a major accident occurs ahead, the GPS device sounds an alert, telling drivers that the road is shut down ahead, and offers an alternate route.

Richard Mullins

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