BMW Plunges from Toll Road Due to Map: Don't Blindly Follow Google Maps

KatadataOTO – Google Maps is a navigation application that can be accessed via mobile phones. It makes it easier for drivers to find the best travel routes.

However, many drivers still rely entirely on the application during their journey. This habit, however, endangers both the driver and other road users.

Recently on Saturday (05/04), a car BMW was reported to have plunged from the Krian-Gresik Toll Road from a height of about five meters, at 22:00 local time.

Based on a post from the @lbj_jakarta account, the incident occurred because the car was following Google Maps, which directed the driver to an unfinished toll road.

Photo : Instagram @lbj_jakarta

“Reportedly, there were no fatalities; two people suffered minor injuries and were taken to Ibnu Sina Regional General Hospital,” wrote the account, quoted on Monday (07/04).

This is not the first time a driver has gotten lost or trapped on a dangerous road by following directions from the Google Maps application.

Therefore, drivers need to remain cautious and not rely entirely on Google Maps, especially when driving to an area that is not fully familiar.

According to a driving safety expert, road conditions that do not yet meet the requirements should indeed be supervised by the implementing party or the local government.

However, drivers must also remain aware of their surroundings. Moreover, it was reported that a barrier had already been placed before the unfinished section of the toll road.

“A barrier is definitely there, and it is generally unmaintained or left open by passing workers. This is a loophole and is usually breached by incompetent drivers,” said Sony Susmana, a Safety Driving Instructor at SDCI, to KatadataOTO on Monday (07/04).

Besides needing supervision from the management, drivers are urged to understand good driving practices. Not just steering, but also identifying potential dangers on the road.

“The steps are easy if based on intention and consistency, that's the main thing. Because taking a wrong turn and ending up in an accident, even while using Google Maps, is 90 percent the driver's fault,” he said.

Photo : Antara

The presence of a barrier, according to Sony, should make a driver slow down, be vigilant, and stop to ensure safety.

If unsure, Sony advises drivers to proceed slowly at a low speed or to reverse and avoid that road.

“In principle, Google Maps is only a guide to assist drivers in unfamiliar situations,” Sony emphasized.