Q&A with Tom Nix

Q: Thanksgiving can be one of the worst times of the year for traveling. What technology is available as families hit the road?

A: Beat the Traffic is an app that gives real-time traffic updates and traffic alerts due to construction or accidents. On some of the major highways throughout the state, live video cameras allow you to see current road conditions via live stream. This app is even used by media outlets to provide viewers with traffic updates. Your spouse in the passenger seat or tech-savvy kid in the back seat can quickly access this app, available on iOS and Android operating systems. This tool is not only great for busy holiday travel, but also for your daily commute to work or to the highly attended sporting events in Norman, Stillwater and at Chesapeake Arena.

Q: Are there apps to help save money while on the road?

A: Gas prices always seem to spike right around major holiday and traveling seasons. One tool I have relied on is GasBuddy, an app available on iOS and Android that helps you find the best price for gas in your area and locates the nearest gas station while you travel. I use this app when traveling to see family and it has become useful during those long stretches of highways when there is nothing but open plains and areas with limited gas stations. Also, use this app to check for the stations with the lowest prices.