A real-time, event based driver alert system for accident avoidance due to red light running
Thopte, Deepti Suresh
:
2009-07-20
Abstract
Traffic signals provide the key mechanism to regulate traffic, and promote safe and efficient traffic flow at intersections. However, incidents of red light running can compromise the safety of the system. Research shows that many drivers violate red signals, placing themselves and other road users at risk for serious collisions. These incidents stem mostly due to the well known dilemma zone problem where the drivers cannot decide whether slowing down the vehicle would bring their vehicle to a stop or should they increase the speed and cross the intersection. Other factors, such as wet road conditions, make the problem worse. This thesis presents Intelligent Traffic Light (ITL), which is a cyber physical system that combines information technology and communications technology with the transportation infrastructure to address the red light running incidents. ITL estimates when a traffic light will change to red, and warns drivers of approaching vehicles about when and how much to slow down to avoid red light running. ITL can also account for road conditions, which increases its usability in challenging weather conditions.