You can’t always trust your map app: faulty Google Maps directions led some Aurora, Colo. area drivers to a strange and muddy detour on Sunday. The app seemed to be trying to route them around a crash, but instead ended up causing a separate traffic jam. 

Google’s detour suggestion dumped dozens of drivers on a one-way dirt road, according to Denver7. Rainy weather from earlier in the weekend caused a muddy patch that drivers say ended up causing a 100-car backup due.

Many of the drivers blamed Google Maps for taking them to the off-road detour in the first place, relying on the app to automatically reroute them when traffic gets bad. The incident shows just how much we can trust our smartphone apps.

“My thought was, ‘Well there are all these other cars in front of me so it must be OK.’ So I just continued,” driver Connie Monsees told Denver7.

“The question is why did Google send us out there to begin with? There was no turning back once you were out there,” she added.

While Google Maps has many useful features, like real-time information on traffic and transit options as well as SOS alerts for natural disasters, the app can’t always predict roads affected by daily weather, remote road closures, and other issues that are undetectable by GPS. 

It wasn’t too long ago that drivers relied on actual maps to get them from point A to point B, but with the advancement in technology, you’d be hard pressed to find anyone with a map in their glove box nowadays. 

According to the Washington Post, an essential part of our culture is “wayfinding,” or being aware of our environment and barriers during travel. With our reliance on GPS systems like Google Maps, we plug an address in, go on autopilot mode and don’t necessarily remember how we got to our destination. 

Google didn’t respond to our request for comment, but a spokesperson told ABC News that Google Maps takes “many factors into account when determining driving routes, including the size of the road and the directness of the route.”

“While we always work to provide the best directions, issues can arise due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather,” the spokesperson said. “We encourage all drivers to follow local laws, stay attentive, and use their best judgement while driving.”

Related Posts

Mercedes-AMG F1 City Edition E-Bike: High-Octane Performance on Two Wheels

Unleash the Power: Performance Meets Precision Under the hood…errr frame…the City Edition e-bike houses a 750W motor that powers you to speeds of up to 28 mph with pedal assist. Need an extra push? When necessary, the throttle assist engages allowing you to cruise effortlessly. They’ve even provided four riding modes::

Tax Season Deals: Get the most out of your refund this year

If you want one of the best tablets for business, you'll quickly realize that you might want a keyboard along with it. One of the greatest parts about the Microsoft Surface Pro 11, as well as one of its biggest drawbacks, is its keyboard. See, normally, the keyboard comes separately (it is fully detachable) and that can seriously jack up the price. However, if you get this bundled deal you can get both components in one helpful box and even save yourself $300.

Unleash fun and savings: discover local adventures with Groupon’s “Things to Do”

Why Groupon’s "Things to Do" is Worth Exploring Groupon deals go a step beyond saving on your everyday purchases and open the door to unforgettable experiences. Imagine escaping from a high-stakes mystery room, perfecting your crepe-making skills in a cooking class, or enjoying a discounted spa day. You’ll also find deals on fitness classes, local tours, and even activities like ax-throwing (highly recommend this) and glass-blowing workshops.