The National Transport Commission (NTC) has released a new discussion paper that suggests the uptake of new technology that would allow vehicles to ‘talk’ to each other could cut the road toll by as much as 25 per cent.

 

The NTC’s paper found that Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) technology is already being trialled in the US and Europe by manufacturers and governments to enable drivers to better plan and adapt their driving rout to avoid heavy congestion, crashers or road works.

 

NTC Chief Executive Nick Dimopoulos said C-ITS has the potential to revolutionise road safety with research indicating its introduction to Australia could save over 300 lives a year.

 

“With road trauma in Australia currently accounting for 1,300 deaths each year, this technology has the potential to provide a leap forward in road safety,” said Mr Dimopoulos.

 

“So that Australia can harness the benefits of C-ITS technology, we need to start working through the implications now.”

 

The NTC’s Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems Regulatory Policy Issues Discussion Paper discusses how Australia could best prepare for the introduction of C-ITS with key issues highlighted including:

  • Privacy – C-ITS applications generate significant quantities of data that could be linked to individuals. C-ITS must be implemented and managed within Australia’s privacy laws that govern the collection, use and disposal of personal information.
  • Liability – clearly defined responsibilities for liability in the event of a crash involving a C-ITS enabled vehicle will be required to provide certainty to drivers, manufacturers, insurers and road managers.
  • Driver distraction – existing rules govern the use of technology inside vehicles to reduce driver distraction. An assessment is required of how C-ITS applications fit within these existing rules.
  • Compliance and enforcement – how C-ITS applications will be used for compliance and enforcement purposes will be critical to providing certainty to drivers about how they will be treated.

 

The discussion paper is available on the NTC website and is open for public comment until 31 January 2013 via the NTC website or by mail to Chief Executive, National Transport Commission, Level 15/628 Bourke Street, Melbourne Vic 3000.