Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) in the US has entered into a data sharing partnership to improve road safety through navigation app Waze’s Connected Citizens programme.

The Connected Citizens programme is a two-way data sharing system that shares the traffic information collected from users.

Under the terms of the partnership, the programme will be responsible to provide enhanced efficiency, precise real-time data and improved road safety for Tennessee drivers.

"The immense data TDOT can contribute on statewide road conditions, closures and traffic within the Waze app makes them a valued partner moving forward."

TDOT commissioner John Schroer said: "TDOT is always looking for ways we can provide motorists with information that can make their commutes safer and faster. By partnering with Waze, we’re doing just that.

"We’ve taken our SmartWay website that provides information for motorists on highway incidents, construction activities and traffic information and elevated it’s accuracy by allowing Waze users to report issues and concerns they see each day during their commutes. It’s a perfect partnership."

The programme delivers accurate real-time information on road activity, thereby enabling drivers to change their course, adjust their travel times and avoid unnecessary delays.

Users can access traffic data available through Waze on TDOT SmartWay website.

IOS and Android smartphone users can also access the TDOT Smartway insights available on the Waze app.

Waze Connected Citizens programme manager Paige Fitzgerald said: "Waze is only as strong as the information it receives from its users.

"The immense data TDOT can contribute on statewide road conditions, closures and traffic within the Waze app makes them a valued partner moving forward."

TDOT has added new upgrades to the SmartWay web application that include red badges, indicating road blockages or closures and several weather icons.

Waze has currently more than 55 partners worldwide.