Drivers using Waze or Google Maps will now receive a new alert when approaching a disabled vehicle or AAA roadside worker, giving you time to slow down and move over.
The feature, launched by AAA and Waze, aims to reduce crashes involving stranded motorists and responders who work just feet from fast-moving traffic.
What’s Happening: When a AAA member calls for roadside assistance, the vehicle’s location is flagged in Waze and Google Maps as a hazard. Drivers using these apps will get a real-time warning about the disabled car or technician ahead.
Scott VerBracken, Vice President of Automotive Services for AAA, said the alert gives drivers an important nudge to take action. “Far too many deaths occur because drivers are either not paying attention or do not realize they’re approaching someone on the roadside,” he said.
Why It Matters: Every month, two roadside responders are killed in crashes caused by distracted or unaware drivers. This new feature could help save lives by giving drivers a clear heads-up to follow the “Move Over” law – a requirement in most states that drivers slow down or change lanes when passing emergency vehicles on the shoulder.
How It Works:
• When a driver calls AAA for help, the vehicle’s location is shared with Waze and Google Maps.
• As you approach, the app sends an alert about the hazard or technician.
• The notification updates automatically once help arrives.
The alerts are already live in 14 states, including Georgia, Florida, and Tennessee.
What You Can Do: Stay alert, slow down, and move over whenever you see an alert – or a vehicle on the roadside. It keeps AAA workers, stranded drivers, and you safe.
Next time you’re navigating with Waze, keep an ear out for this new alert. A quick slowdown or lane change can make all the difference.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.
