AI technology has become very important for improving our overall quality of life. We have talked about some of the many benefits it provides, as well as the fact that it is expected to increase the world GDP by $4.9 trillion by 2030.
However, we haven’t talked as much about some of the practical benefits of AI, such as the fact that it is making our society safer. One of the ways that it is helping make our lives safer is by making smart crosswalks that can lead to fewer deaths.
This is just one of the many ways that AI is creating smart cities. Keep reading to learn more.
Are Smart CrossWalks the Latest Example of How AI Can Make Us Safer?
In our increasingly crowded and urbanized cities, there has been a worrying increase in pedestrian road traffic accidents. Around 1.19 million people die in traffic accidents around the world, according to the UN. A significant portion of these fatalities involves pedestrians which highlights their vulnerability on roads.
As traffic continues to grow in major urban areas, there is an urgent need for innovative solutions to protect pedestrians. Smart crosswalks, which use technology to improve pedestrian safety and reduce accidents, are among the most promising advancements.
How Smart Crosswalks Work
Smart zebra crossings use different technologies, including AI, to make walking safer. These crossings have sensors that can detect when a person is close or already crossing the road. When sensors detect a person, they turn on signals like flashing lights or LED strips in the road. Thus, it shows drivers that someone is crossing. To help drivers, some smart crossings can sync with traffic lights to ensure that cars stop automatically when pedestrians are crossing.
These systems analyze traffic patterns using real-time data to forecast potential collision locations and times. Moreover, such smart crossings adjust signal times and communicate with vehicles to improve pedestrian safety. They achieve this without increasing traffic congestion, especially in busy urban areas.
Can Smart Crosswalks Prevent Future Accidents?
On a recent Monday morning in north St. Louis, a tragic pedestrian accident occurred. It was near Lee and East Prairie avenues, just a few blocks from Fairground Park.
At around 1:50 a.m., a vehicle struck a pedestrian and fled the scene, leaving the pedestrian fatally injured. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department is currently investigating the hit-and-run. However, the incident underscores the critical need for better pedestrian safety measures in cities like St. Louis.
In instances like these, families are frequently left devastated. They may require legal assistance to navigate the aftermath of these heartbreaking occurrences. In such a context, a local St. Louis car accident lawyer can serve as a supporting hand. They can guide and aid families in comprehending their entitlements and choices when pursuing justice and recompense.
Nonetheless, these incidents also underscore the significance of implementing intelligent crosswalk technology to avert future accidents. Through the utilization of sensors to detect pedestrians, such crosswalks can alert drivers in real time to enhance safety. Moreover, the system ensures safety in low-visibility or high-traffic areas, potentially preventing accidents like the one in St. Louis.
Current Implementation of Smart Crosswalks in Cities
Several major cities have already begun to adopt smart crosswalk technology. In Dubai, for example, 14 AI-powered Smart Pedestrian Crossing Systems were installed in 2023 by Derq across the Dubai Silicon Oasis. These systems adjust the green light timing to give pedestrians more time to cross busy intersections safely. This is one of the examples of the benefits of the Internet of Things.
Marbella has also recently incorporated LED-lit crosswalks with motion-sensor technology. These are intended to increase pedestrian visibility to motorists, particularly during inclement weather or at night. Additionally, this system contributes to a more sustainable city infrastructure. The energy-efficient LED lights reduce overall power consumption, aligning with Marbella’s broader environmental goals.
In several US cities on the West Coast, an experimental system called Adaptive Traffic Signals is being tested. The aim behind the initiative is to allow better synchronization of traffic lights while considering pedestrian movement. These signals detect pedestrians and adjust their timing accordingly, minimizing both the risks of accidents and traffic congestion.
Challenges of Smart Crosswalk Adoption
Although smart crosswalks have the potential to increase pedestrian safety, their widespread adoption is hampered. These systems may be expensive to establish and operate, particularly for communities with outdated infrastructure. Integrating smart crosswalk technology with existing traffic systems requires planning and cooperation between city officials, transportation departments, and tech companies.
In addition, driver behavior remains a challenge. While smart crosswalks can reduce accidents, they cannot eliminate the risks associated with reckless or distracted driving. TorHoerman Law points out that one of the main reasons for traffic accidents in the United States is distracted driving.
Therefore, to guarantee pedestrian safety, public awareness campaigns are essential alongside the implementation of smart crossing technology. Additionally, stricter enforcement of traffic regulations is necessary to further enhance road safety.
As smart cities evolve, smart crosswalks are set to play an essential role in advancing pedestrian safety and urban planning. However, this technology alone cannot solve the problem. It can only reduce the risks and save lives, making streets safer for everyone.
FAQs
1. What sets smart crosswalks apart from traditional crosswalks?
Smart crosswalks utilize sensors, LED lights, and real-time traffic data systems to warn drivers about pedestrians. On the contrary, traditional crosswalks depend solely on static signs and traffic signals, which may not always effectively prevent accidents. Moreover, smart crosswalks also offer adaptive signal timing, while traditional crosswalks operate on fixed timers.
2. Can smart crosswalks eliminate all pedestrian accidents?
Modern crosswalks can significantly lower the risk of accidents. However, they cannot eliminate incidents, particularly those caused by reckless or distracted driving. Additionally, while these systems can alert vehicles and pedestrians, they are limited by the existing road infrastructure. Safety measures are necessary alongside the technology.
3. What are the expenses of installing smart crosswalks?
The expense varies based on the specific technology and location. Overall smart crosswalks can be costly because of the requirement for sensors, lighting systems, and real-time data integration. Nevertheless, the potential benefits in terms of lives saved may outweigh the expenses.
Smart crosswalks represent a promising step forward in reducing pedestrian RTAs, especially in busy urban environments. However, their success will depend on broader adoption, integration with existing infrastructure, and complementary measures to address driver behavior.