Three types of alerts are shown on the signs – objects on the road, stopped vehicles, and accidents – ensuring that preventive warning information reaches everyone on the road, not just app users. The hazards are reported on Waze and transmitted to the Transport Administration’s traffic management system. A warning message is then generated and displayed on the variable message sign preceding the location of the incident. In addition to the hazard description, the sign includes a warning symbol and the approximate distance to the source of danger. Waze’s real-time reports help drivers receive accurate and reliable information, and drivers are only alerted to hazards up to 10 km ahead to ensure they receive only the most relevant updates.
The display of information depends on how many users have confirmed a particular event in the Waze app. User confirmations indicate that the hazard genuinely exists and that the information is reliable. If a road user notices a potential hazard and it has already been reported in the app, there is no need to submit a new report. Confirming the existing event is sufficient – this helps the system understand that the situation is still current.
Drivers are reminded that their primary focus while driving must be on traffic and vehicle control. The use of the app must never compromise safety. If a driver wishes to report or confirm a hazard, this must be done safely – preferably after stopping in a suitable location or with the assistance of a passenger. Hazard alerts are generally transmitted to the variable message signs automatically. However, on high-volume road sections during the Traffic Management Centre’s operating hours, a semi-automated system is used, meaning that a traffic operator assesses the situation and confirms the decision.
Under normal circumstances, the variable message signs continue to display weather-related warnings and other traffic-related information. Road users may also report hazards by calling the State helpline at 1247.
The service for displaying hazard alerts from Waze was developed in cooperation with the Traffic Management Centre’s traffic management system development and maintenance partners, Traffest OÜ and SWARCO ITALIA s.r.l..
The Estonian Transport Administration has been partnering with Waze for ten years. During this time, Waze has proven to be a reliable source of information alongside other data sources. Data entered into the app by road users is valuable and supports traffic management decision-making.
Examples of Waze app hazard alerts displayed on varible message signs.
