New app offers Pa. Turnpike drivers real-time traffic updates

The Pennsylvania Turnpike has released a free smart-phone app for motorists who want real-time traffic updates.

The app is called TRIP Talk.

For smart-phone users, it’s like a crystal ball letting motorists know when there’s a closure or a delay ahead, said Craig Shuey of the turnpike commission.

He said the app is as up-to-date as drivers can hope to have for advisories on the roadway.

“Basically as soon as we know it, and put it on our website and though our alert system, it’ll pop up, if you’re in that zone, and you’ll read it–or you’ll hear it.” Shuey said.

Right, don’t read it—turnpike officials want to stress this is a hands-free, eyes-free deal.

The intent is not to distract drivers whose eyes should be on the road.

But what about how the audio alerts interfere with drivers who want to use their smart phone… as a phone?

Turnpike officials say alerts pause for calls–incoming or outgoing–and then start playing again after the call is completed.