Do you want to play a part in improving traffic issues in Preston?
If so, by following a simple 'reporting' procedure, you can aid changes to sat nav systems that direct traffic through Preston.
Please read the following information, kindly provided by East Riding of Yorkshire Council's Senior Engineer / Traffic Management.
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Why this matters: Many sat nav systems (Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze, etc.) rely on user feedback to improve routing. When drivers report that a road is unsuitable for through traffic—especially if it’s narrow, historic, or prone to causing vehicle blockages—these platforms can adjust their algorithms to discourage future routing through those areas.
What we’re trying to achieve: We want to reduce inappropriate traffic on ancient, narrow streets by encouraging residents and visitors to report these roads as unsuitable. The more people report, the more likely it is that the mapping systems will take notice and adjust their routing algorithms accordingly.
Why frequent reporting helps: These systems prioritise commonly reported issues. If multiple users flag the same road as problematic, it increases the likelihood of a change. Even if you’ve reported it before, doing so again—especially after seeing another vehicle get stuck—can make a difference.
​How to Report a Mapping Issue
Apple Maps
1. Open Apple Maps on your iPhone.
2. Find the street in question.
3. Tap on the street name or location pin.
4. Scroll down and tap “Report an Issue.”
5. Choose “Navigation Issue” or “Road Issue.”
6. Describe the problem (e.g., “This road is too narrow for through traffic. Vehicles frequently get stuck.”).
7. Submit the report.
Google Maps
1. Open Google Maps on your phone or browser.
2. Locate the street.
3. Tap the three dots (â‹®) in the corner of the screen or click on the street name.
4. Select “Report a problem” or “Edit the map.”
5. Choose “Wrong information” or “Road is missing/closed.”
6. Add a description (e.g., “This road is unsuitable for through traffic. Vehicles regularly get stuck.”).
7. Submit.
Waze
1. Open Waze while driving or stationary.
2. Tap the orange speech bubble icon.
3. Tap “Map Issue.”
4. Select “Road too narrow” or “Not suitable for traffic.”
5. Add a short description (e.g., “This road is too narrow for cars. Please reroute traffic.”).
6. Submit the report.
Humberside Police - Operation SNAP
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Another successful way of reporting dangerous or illegal driving is via Operation SNAP.
Operation Snap is a police initiative that allows members of the public to report dangerous or illegal driving they have witnessed, typically captured via dashcam, helmet cam, or mobile phone footage. This helps police take action against unsafe road users and improve road safety.
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What Can Be Reported
• Dangerous driving
• Driving while using a mobile phone
• Ignoring traffic signals or signs
• Aggressive or careless driving
• Driving without due care and attention
What Evidence Is Needed
You must have video footage of the incident. The footage should clearly show:
• The vehicle and its registration number
• The incident taking place
• The date and time of the incident
Still images or written descriptions alone are not sufficient.
How to Submit a Report
1. Visit the Humberside Police Operation Snap webpage.
2. Fill out the online form with your details and a description of the incident.
3. Upload your video footage.
4. Submit the report.
Note: You may be asked to provide a witness statement and could be required to attend court.
What Happens After Submission
The police will review the footage and determine if further action is warranted. This could include:
• Issuing a warning
• Penalty points or fines
• Prosecution
You will be informed if your footage is used and may be contacted for further information.