Verkehrsinfos

Verkehrsinfos, or traffic information, refers to information about current and planned conditions affecting the movement of people and goods on roads and through public transport networks. The term covers real-time data as well as forecasted or scheduled information used to plan journeys and avoid delays.

Scope and content include road traffic conditions such as congestion, accidents, roadworks, detours, and lane closures; weather-related impacts on mobility; and disruptions in public transport services like delays, cancellations, or service reductions. Some datasets also cover pedestrian and cycling routes when relevant.

Data sources come from multiple origins. Traffic management centers and road authorities operate sensors, cameras, and other monitoring systems to generate official updates. Vehicle fleets, navigation devices, and mobile apps contribute GPS-based location and travel-time data, often supplemented by user-reported incidents. Weather services can indicate conditions affecting mobility. All sources may be combined and anonymized to provide a comprehensive picture.

Delivery channels include dedicated websites and mobile apps, in-vehicle navigation systems, radio traffic reports, and electronic message signs along roadways. Data formats commonly used for Verkehrsinfos include real-time feeds for road (RTPI), GTFS for public transport, and standardized DATEX II feeds in some regions, enabling interoperability across platforms.

Applications of Verkehrsinfos range from dynamic route planning and automatic rerouting to travel-time estimations and alerting travelers to incidents or closures. Privacy and data quality are central considerations, with emphasis on data validation, anonymization, and user consent where personal data are involved. In German-speaking countries, Verkehrsinfos are produced by authorities, automotive associations, and private providers and are widely used to improve travel efficiency and safety.