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Tech

Most drivers who used GPS got lost, survey says

By Laptopmag.com
Published | Updated
ChevyGoGoLinkApp06.jpg

Chevrolet introduces GoGoLink, an embedded smartphone application that delivers full-function navigation including live traffic updates through the seven-inch, high-resolution touch screen of the vehicles MyLink infotainment system Wednesday, March 28, 2012 in New York, New York. GoGoLink is expected to be available in the fall for the Chevy Spark and Sonic vehicles. (Photo by John F. Martin for Chevrolet) (© 2012 John F. Martin and General Motors. This image is protected by copyright but provided for use under a Creative Commons 3.0 License for the purpose of editorial comment only. The use of this image for advertising, marketing, or any other commercial p)

Remember missing a turn and going in circles because your GPS said "Turn left now" about five seconds too late? You're not alone.

63 percent of U.S. drivers who have used GPS report having been led astray by confusing or incorrect directions given by their navigation systems, according to a recent Michelin survey.

On average, U.S. drivers were misdirected 4.4 times by GPS. The survey, conducted online in April 2013 by Harris Interactive for Michelin Travel and Lifestyle, polled more than 2,200 U.S. adults. And the survey found that good old physical maps and printed directions were still the most preferred option for some 40 percent of Americans when traveling to unfamiliar destinations.

"Technology is great, but a printed map is one of the most important tools a traveler in an unfamiliar setting can have," said editorial director of Michelin Travel Partners Cynthia Ochterbeck.

"The battery doesn't die, it is easy to use, and it allows you to make decisions on route changes if necessary," said Ochterbeck.

GPS was the second most popular option for travel aids, coming in with 30 percent of the votes. Smartphones and tablet devices were used by 19 percent of respondents while 6 percent rely on verbal directions from locals in the area. Three percent of respondents don't use any travel aids at all when traveling to unfamiliar locations.