Nowadays, when you want information, there is an app for that. There are news apps, weather apps, traffic apps, map apps and so many other apps that drivers use almost daily. Have you ever looked into the 511 apps for specific states?
A quick search in your app store just using “511” (without the quotes) in the search bar will yield a lot of results. These can be very handy for those who like to plan ahead. Find out about road closures, construction, or accidents from those on the scene. Many of these apps will also allow you to view the traffic cameras on the road ahead to actually see what is going on versus just guessing with a color-coded traffic map. But if you like the color-coded traffic maps, these apps provide that too. There is so much more info in these 511 apps than just a traffic map.
You probably don’t need to download 49 apps, just the ones where you travel most, or where you incur the most issues.
For Minnesota, the app is called - Minnesota 511
With this app, you can see traffic cameras to get an actual view of what the road looks like. You can also see the plow camera view. See what the plow drivers see. Road reports are also available right in the app.
For California, the app is called QuickMap
This app will also show you traffic conditions, road closures, and traffic cameras. It will also show you plow locations, and CHP (California Highway Patrol) incident reports. These can be especially helpful when there is a crash or a weather-related incident on the road ahead. You can see the CHP report and know exactly what is happening and better estimate how long it might take to clear up. You can also see the overhead message signs on any road to be better prepared for the road ahead. It will even show you where chain controls are in effect.
For Arizona, the app is called 511 Arizona
This app has many of the same features as the others - traffic cameras, highway incident reports, and road closures. This app also can also show you border wait times. All of the alerts in this app will be read to you rather than you have to read them.
For Missouri, the app is called MoDot Traveler Information
Like the other apps above, you can see traffic conditions, weather conditions, and work zone delays. With this app, you can also see the overhead message signs on the road and traffic cameras.
These are just a few of the very useful 511 apps out there. Whether the app has “511” in the name or not, searching “511” in your app store will find them for you. Go to your app store and download the apps for the states where you travel the most and get your road condition reports from those who really know what is going on out there, the Department of Transportation and Highway Patrol from each state.