Replacing Traffic Signs with In-Car Warnings
Researchers at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute are assessing the viability of using in-car alerts to tell drivers when they do and don't need to stop at a cross street.
#regulations
Researchers at the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute are assessing the viability of using in-car alerts to tell drivers when they do and don't need to stop at a cross street.
Such a system would eliminate the need to erect and maintain physical signage and signals. Instead, cars would use car-to-car connectivity systems to detect the presence of approaching cross traffic. Warnings to stop could appear on a screen or head-up display only as needed.
The Virginia Tech researchers note that the system also could be used to provide seasonally appropriate warnings, thus replacing today's year-around "Bridge Freezes Before Road" signs.
The researchers acknowledge that such a system isn't likely to be deployed anytime soon because it would require major revisions to today's transportation system. Initial testing has centered on assessing driver behavior and acceptance of the concept and responses if the system fails.
RELATED CONTENT
-
U.S. in No Hurry to Regulate Autonomous Vehicles
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the emerging technology involved in self-driving cars is too new to be tightly regulated.
-
Takata Recalls Another 3.3 Million Airbag Inflators in U.S.
More than a dozen carmakers are preparing to recall another 3.3 million vehicles in the U.S. to replace Takata Corp. airbag inflators that could explode in a crash.
-
Daimler Cleared to Test Advanced Robotic Cars on Beijing Roads
Daimler AG has become the first foreign carmaker to win permission to test advanced self-driving vehicles on public roads in Beijing.