Google Maps underwent a major change earlier this year. It modified the way it reports incidents to be a bit more similar to its sibling Waze. From cars on the road to major accidents, it's a way to help users keep Google Maps up to date in real time.

As part of the revamp, Google Maps users were given the option to report speed traps. However, that is about to change as Google is replacing the “speed trap” option with a more generic “police” report.

It is not difficult to understand why this feature is changing. Flagging a hidden police car trying to catch you speeding is just one of the reasons you might see police on the road. You may also see police officers stopping on the street, directing traffic, or simply pulling over to the side of the road. The new “police” option covers all of that.

Indeed, some may lament the loss of the “speed trap” option. While speeding is certainly unacceptable, it is useful to see if someone is waiting to catch you. But there are plenty of reasons to want to be aware that there are cops on the road.

Furthermore, let's face it, speed traps or not, you don't want to drive recklessly past a cop. An early warning may be the wake-up call you need to stop driving like a maniac.

According to Android Authority, the changes are beginning to roll out to the Google Maps app on Android and iOS. Sadly, it is not yet clear if Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have received the same treatment. However, it is likely that this change will be made in the near future.

If you are driving and notice that the speed trap reporting option is gone, don't panic. As a police presence, along with other things they may be doing, you can still report it. Just to be safe.