Drivers to get traffic updates from Google Maps with Commute function

Google says its goal is to help commuters avoid traffic problems completely using live traffic data it receives about potential delays. Photo: Andrea Warnecke/dpa

The time of checking local radio stations for possible traffic delays may soon be over. Google Maps wants to alert you to possible traffic jams before you leave the house. 

Google has added special features for commuters to its Maps app, so that drivers and other commuters can check for traffic jams or other delays before they set off.