Google Maps is one of the most used mapping applications in the world. Millions of people use it every day, among other things, to know which route to choose on their travels. But, Not a perfect app. Sometimes it can suggest routes that are completely unsuitable and, in the worst case, do not lead to the expected destination.

One of these incidents occurred a few days ago in the United States, when a convoy from Las Vegas to Los Angeles ended up unexpectedly in the Mojave Desert desert with some damaged vehicles. Let’s see what happened and the journey that promised a peaceful return to the city from where it started came to an end.

When ‘saving 50 minutes’ on travel becomes a bad idea

Shelby Easler, one of the heroes of this story, says that she and other people went to the gambling capital to see an F1 race. They decided to return after the event was over, but sandstorm. Google Maps warned against this scenario and suggested an alternative route.

Continuing on the original route, Interstate 15, would have greatly increased travel time. But the new route came with an attractive offer: saving 50 minutes on the journey in question. So the car in which Easler traveled, like many other people, preferred this alternative, which at first seemed the most convenient.

As the minutes passed, those who chose the alternative route witnessed how the asphalt road disappeared and gave way to a street. lonely and lonely road. Without realizing it, they had begun to enter the Mojave Desert. As if this wasn’t enough, some vehicles remained where they were.

Images shared by Shelby Easler

The young woman says that when faced with this scenario, they decided to call the police, but the response was not as expected: The agents were dealing with the consequences of the storm, so they could not turn to the so-called alternative route. immediately. Since some cars were damaged, they decided to call the assistance service.

After waiting several hours, the damaged cars were towed back to Las Vegas for repairs. Fortunately, only material damage and everyone involved in this unexpected adventure is safe and sound. Now they will definitely think twice before choosing the alternative route to save time.

We don’t know what settings the people involved used, but we should point out that Google Maps allows you to create different options to avoid certain routes. Before choosing any route, it is recommended to analyze it carefully to avoid surprises. You can also read our guide to using the app like a Jedi Master.

Images: Shelby Easler

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