Vision ZERO Empowered by AI: A Path to Safer Roads

Fresh from attending a pivotal Road Safety conference in Croatia, which drew participants from 12 countries, I feel compelled to capture and share the invaluable insights gained from today's discussions.

In an era where technology and innovation intertwine to create safer living environments, the implementation of Vision Zero stands as a beacon of hope towards eliminating traffic-related fatalities and injuries. Originating in Sweden during the 1990s, Vision Zero's core philosophy is not just a policy but a fundamental shift in how society approaches road safety. It is a strategy that aims to ensure no one is killed or seriously injured within the road traffic system, emphasizing the importance of safe, healthy, equitable mobility for all. This transformative approach has not only seen success across Europe but is now making significant inroads into major American cities, reflecting a growing global commitment to road safety.

From 20640 fatalities to ZERO till 2050

The European Commission, recognizing the critical need for enhanced road safety, adopted the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy in 2020, with transport safety and security being one of its ten key action areas. This strategy aligns with the long-term goal of achieving "Vision Zero" by 2050, an ambitious target to reduce road transport fatalities to as close to zero as possible. Despite a decline in road accidents, with 20,640 people losing their lives in 2022, the most vulnerable road users—pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists—remain at high risk. The EU's aim to halve road fatalities and serious injuries by 2030 sets a challenging but necessary milestone on the path to realizing Vision Zero.

However, achieving these lofty objectives requires more than just ambition; it demands effective implementation and innovation. An assessment of the European Commission's efforts revealed a comprehensive approach towards establishing the EU Safe System approach. Yet, it also highlighted significant shortcomings, notably the pace of progress and the effectiveness of support for member states. Without intensified efforts from both the EU and its member states, the dream of Vision Zero could remain elusive.

What we do at EnliteAI with our Detekt

One promising avenue to accelerate progress towards Vision Zero is the adoption of advanced technologies, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI). Digital Twinning of road infrastructure represents a cutting-edge strategy to this end. By collecting extensive mobile mapping data, including Lidar imagery and panoramic pictures of the pavement, AI can play a pivotal role in identifying potential hazards. This technology allows for the detection of critical objects such as damages, markings, and signs, classifying them according to established standards. Through AI's analytical prowess, cities can proactively address road safety issues, ensuring timely interventions and reducing the risk of accidents.

The integration of AI into road safety strategies exemplifies the innovative approaches necessary to move closer to achieving Vision Zero. As cities and countries harness the power of technology to safeguard their citizens, the goal of eliminating traffic fatalities and severe injuries becomes increasingly attainable. Vision Zero, empowered by AI, represents not only a commitment to safety but also to the advancement of a society where every journey is safe, equitable, and sustainable.

#roadsafety #artificalintelligence #visionzero