A high-crash intersection in Melbourne will receive what the State Government describes as Australia-first technology in a bid to curb accidents.
The cutting-edge technology will also provide real-time warnings of potential hazards to commercial vehicles fitted with connected technology.
The trial is expected to provide insights that can help boost safety at busy, complex intersections.
Specialist light detention and ranging (LIDAR) sensors will monitor the intersection and analyse all crashes and near misses.
Jaala Pulford, Minister for Roads, Roads Safety and the TAC announced new connected and automated vehicle technology will be fitted at the intersection of Williamstown Road and Somerville Road in Yarraville.
“A third of road fatalities in Victoria happen at intersections – this trial will give us important insights on how to boost safety at intersections and keep more Victorians safe,” she said.
“Victoria has always led the way in connected and automated vehicle technology, this is another way we’re making our infrastructure and policies support the uptake of this life-saving technology,” said Pulford.
“This technology will play a key role in keeping Victorians safe on our roads – that’s why we’re investing in it and beginning the roll-out on our roads.”
According to the State Government, a third of deaths and 44 per cent of serious injuries on Victoria’s roads occur at intersections.
Road Safety Victoria will closely analyse crashes and near misses, and how they may have been caused through the use of the LIDAR technology.
Omni-Aware, a consortium of specialist technology companies that includes Intelligent Transport Services, Transoptim Consulting and IBIS Computer will undertake the trial.
The project is funded through the Labor Government’s $9 million Connected and Automated Vehicle Trial Grants Program.
Date: September 17, 2019
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