V2V technology cure for car accidents?
Imagine if cars could talk to each other. One car's coming around a corner. Another's heading towards the same intersection. The two cars then communicate and relay each other's locations, thus avoiding an auto accident.
Such a scenario might sound far-fetched. But this technology is closer to reality than you might think. And if one government agency has its way, every vehicle will eventually be equipped with such potentially-life-saving technology.
Recently, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) proposed rules that would require light-duty vehicles to be equipped with V2V technology, according to recent news reports, including an article in Time Magazine. And according to the NHTSA's proposal, all cars produced in about five years will be equipped with V2V devices, Time reported.
What is V2V technology?
V2V stands for "vehicle to vehicle." This technology allows vehicles to automatically communicate with each other once they come within a certain distance of each other. Such information could include each vehicle's speed and direction. Additional information could also be exchanged between vehicles depending on the computer software.
"We are carrying the ball as far as we can to realize the potential of transportation technology to save lives," U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said in a statement issued by the NHTSA. "This long promised V2V rule is the next step in that progression. Once deployed, V2V will provide 360-degree situational awareness on the road and will help us enhance vehicle safety."
One key issue involves making sure all vehicles' V2V devices, regardless of manufacturer, speak a universal language. Auto manufacturers also want to make sure such information is secure and private.
Benefits of V2V technology?
Technology specialists have been touting all the potential benefits of V2V technology for some time. Wired Magazine claims such benefits could include:
- Dramatic decrease in collisions in cars equipped with such technology.
- Automatically applying brakes to avoid a collision.
- Real-time traffic information for drivers.
- Alternate routes suggested for drivers due to traffic or accidents.
- Your vehicle synching with your personal electronic devices and providing you with personal information, including upcoming appointments, estimated travel time, etc.
- Providing more accurate traffic data to municipal planners involved in road construction and traffic mitigation.
Dangers associated with V2V technology?
As with any technology, nothing is ever completely perfect. While many technology experts only see the benefits of V2V technology, some potential pitfalls could include:
- Car accidents could occur since many vehicles are not yet equipped with V2V technology
- Computer hackers could potentially steal personal information or perhaps even intentionally cause car accidents
Other potential dangers people have not even imagined could also arise. Just because a computer programmer insists that nothing will ever go wrong does not constitute a guarantee. This past year, a driver was killed while operating a self-driving car in autopilot mode. That's why it's critical that accident victims always consult with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible after a crash. Technology has the potential for radical, year to year change. But the need for trusted, legal advice will always remain an unaltered priority.