Seattle Drivers to Get Live Bridge Traffic Information from TrafficTalk

Feb. 11, 2011 - PRLog -- TrafficTalk recently released an innovative traffic information service for commuters, just in time to help Seattle area drivers as the likely introduction of tolls on the 520 bridge threatens to upset traffic patterns.  

Applying the power of social networking to solving a vexing real-world problem, TrafficTalk service brings drivers together into localized "communities" so they share information with one another-- live--about traffic conditions and alternate routes—all through the use of their mobile phones.  

The service is easy to access – from any phone, users dial the phone number and access code for their closest community.  Users hear live conversations from drivers which include the location of traffic jams, suggestions on alternate routes, and updates on delay times.  Callers can contribute information when they have something useful to share with other drivers.

“Traffic is one of the biggest problems we all face every day and Seattle area traffic may soon get worse,” said TrafficTalk CEO, Larry Greenfield.  “The pending toll charges on 520 mean that many commuters will have new decisions to make when going to and from work.  Drivers may want to avoid the tolls by taking I-90 or some other route, but if these options become too congested, they might decide to pay the toll.  TrafficTalk will give commuters access to the best information possible, allowing them to avoid paying tolls when the alternate routes are flowing well, while enabling them to know when those options just aren’t worth the wait.”

The service, tested over several months in the busy suburbs of Washington, DC, brings people into helpful communities, where drivers become connected – through the shared pain of their daily commute – to others sharing the same roads.  

“During our testing, users understood immediately that the service was about helping one another—they eagerly shared information on traffic conditions,” said Greenfield. “One driver passing an accident helps dozens or hundreds of others, while another person testing an alternate route tells everyone whether it was really any quicker.  It’s very empowering, and you could tell through the grateful voices of people receiving this information, that it was much appreciated.”

Anyone can connect to TrafficTalk’s free service, from any phone.  Drivers can connect to TrafficTalk through a free iPhone app, or obtain the access numbers from www.traffictalk.info.   The number to call for Seattle area traffic is 805-309-5911.

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TrafficTalk is a traffic information service which enables drivers using mobile phones to come together in an audio conference environment, where they can share details about traffic conditions and help each other avoid or escape back-ups.