INSTALL 'WAZE'
FOR A BETTER DRIVING EXPERIENCE
So the question still has to be asked, ‘Are traffic cameras in Cyprus really for road safety or to create revenue? The debate rages on with arguments being made for both sides of the fence, one thing however, is for certain, They do create a great deal of revenue for Government coffers! This leads nicely on to the second question as to whether traffic cameras are effective at reducing speeding drivers or even accidents on Cyprus roads. Its probably too early to say, but the recent influx and rapid installation of these devices all over the island has led to some people questioning their effectiveness or validity. Controversy has also led to drivers contesting a large percentage of fines and winning their argument, proving in many ways that drivers in Cyprus have now inherited a new game of cat and mouse on Cyprus roads.
A RAGING DEBATE
AN UNFAIR PLAYING FIELD
Cyprus drivers have often stated that traffic cameras have created an unfair playing field and that instead of penalising bad drivers, they have instead unfairly caught out otherwise careful and considerate road users. It has been noted that road speed limit changes are not properly sign posted and that cameras often are not enforced with the proper signage according to highway rules. It is also true to say that once drivers know where speed cameras are, they then slow down for that section of road and then speed up again thereafter, defeating the whole idea. Traffic cameras have also recently been in the spotlight because they have been fining people for stopping on the white lines, meaning that drivers have not actually run any red lights, but have simply got too close to the stop section of the junction and still been fined.
WHAT IS WAZE?
Some drivers in Cyprus have now turned to technology to help even up the playing field and the majority have chosen to install Waze on to their smartphones. Waze is an accurate GPS navigation software application that is owned by Google, which once installed, can be easily used to only provide real-time traffic information, route planning, and turn-by-turn navigation to help drivers find the best routes to their destinations, but also to identify traffic hot spots and both fixed and mobile traffic camera locations around the island.
REGULAR UPDATES
Waze receives regular real-time updates that helps drivers navigate roads in Cyprus more safely by providing them with advanced warnings of changes on the road ahead. It will also notify drivers of adhoc changes such as traffic hotspots and accidents on their route allowing them more time to shift lanes or even take a detour.
The key features of Waze
Navigation & alternative routes
Waze can be set to offer the quickest route to any given location, and then will issue verbal as well visual instructions along the route. It can also be set to offer alternative routes which will avoid certain roads that have excessive traffic cameras. An alternative route may not be the fastest way to any given destination, but may provide drivers with a less stressful journey.
Hidden & fixed traffic cameras
Waze will help drivers avoid hidden and fixed speed traps and will warn drivers of traffic cameras at junctions
Speed limits
Waze can be set to update the driver of any sudden decreasing speed limits in advance.
Hazard detection
The hazard detection function can be set to include speed bumps, sharp turns, and toll booths.
Parking
Waze provides information on car parks and parking spaces and will also tell drivers what the costs are and whether the parking facility is covered or open to the elements.
Roundabout navigation
This feature will teach people how to properly navigate a roundabout on any given route. Waze will point out when to enter, when to switch lanes, and where to exit a roundabout.
HOW DO I USE WAZE?
To use Waze follow these steps
1.Download the Waze app from the App Store (for iOS devices) or Google Play Store (for Android devices)
2. Open the Waze app on your smartphone
3. Sign up for a Waze account
4. Allow Waze to access your location so it can provide you with real-time traffic information
5. Enter your destination by typing in the address of your destination
6. Choose your preferred route based on the options provided by Waze
7. Start your navigation and follow the visual voice-guided instructions to reach your destination
8. Waze will also report incidents such as accidents, hazards, or traffic camera and police presence along your route
