How to report accidents on the road with Google Maps

Google Maps is one of the most useful tools of this digital age. It’s hard to imagine travelling anywhere without Google Maps running in the background, and the service itself forms the backbone for many other services we use today, including Uber, Swiggy, and more.

To improve Google Maps and deliver better navigation data to users, Google uses anonymised data and algorithms to determine where traffic jams are located. Owing to the process involved, this data isn’t always updated in time; and many of us can get caught in jams when alternative routes are available.

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You can do your co-travellers and Google a favour by actively reporting accidents and other traffic incidents such as blockages or road closures to improve Google’s mapping data and ease congestion where possible. Wonder how? Here’s a guide to help you report accidents on the road with Google Maps. 

How to file an accident report on Google Maps

While using Google Maps navigation features on the app, you can file a report by tapping the report icon (!) or the contribute icon (+). From here, you can swipe up to ‘Add a report’.

Next, select one of the following options: Crash, Congestion, Roadworks, Lane Closure, Stalled Vehicle, etc. You can also use the contribute button to update closed roads before you start navigating via Google Maps.

In addition, you can use Google Assistant to file a report while you’re driving.

To do this, simply say ‘Hey Google, report,’ and then describe the issue. The data will be logged by Google Maps.

The data you send will not immediately update on Google Maps, mainly to prevent erroneous data or misreporting. Once Google has validated the report through various means, the route will be updated with your report.

Later, Google Maps might ask travellers if the accident or other obstacle has been cleared. Google will usually do so when vehicles clear the area at expected speeds.

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Contributing to Google Maps data is a great way to assist drivers who are on the same road as you. With quick reporting, you can help save a lot of people a lot of time, and you will also in turn benefit from the reporting thanks to better navigation and routing assistance via Maps.