Barbadian motorists have already found a way to stay one step ahead of traffic cameras and checkpoints by law enforcement — by turning to the popular navigation app Waze.
Owned by Google, Waze is widely known for its real-time traffic updates. But in recent months, drivers across the island have increasingly used it to pinpoint speed cameras and mobile police checkpoints.
Waze relies on community reporting. Any driver can log when they spot a traffic hazard, accident, or police activity. Once confirmed by others, the information appears on the live map for other users.
As motorists approach the area, the app issues a warning — giving them time to reduce speed, or avoid the checkpoint.
Drivers argue the feature improves road safety. “It keeps you alert,” one commuter told The Bajan Observer. “Instead of being caught off guard, you’re reminded to slow down.” But law enforcement sources suggest the tool may undermine their efforts, making it easier for criminals and speeders to dodge police checkpoints. Globally, some governments have restricted the use of such alerts, though no official stance has been taken in Barbados.
For now, Bajans appear eager to share cameras and checkpoint locations with each other, creating a virtual network of road intelligence. Whether this crowdsourced system leads to safer driving or simply helps motorists avoid tickets remains an open question.