In my last post, I mentioned some ITS applications that might have a place in the study area – mainly but not exclusively along GA 515 and US 19/129.  However, in the future there will be an opportunity as Vehicle to Vehicle and Vehicle to Infrastructure communication becomes available then hopefully commonplace.

In a rural setting, the enhanced data that is collected from IntelliDrive technology has the best opportunity to improve Safety and Maintenance Operations, but also traveler information.

In Vehicle Signing – Display of pertinent signs/messages on in-vehicle screens – could include variable speed limits or warnings about road hazards such as sharp curves, steep grades or truck/SUV rollover potential.

VII Traveler Information – Specific, local and targeted traveler information provided to drivers using IntelliDrive DSRC technology including data from other nearby vehicles – potentially powerful in icy weather conditions

Longitudinal Safety Warning – Warns driver to hazards in front of and behind the vehicle – such as on-coming vehicles, animals, etc…

Lateral Safety Warning – Warns driver to hazards to either side of the driver – such as on-coming vehicles, animals, etc…

Pre-Crash Restraint Deployment – uses IntelliDrive DSRC technology, using data from other vehicles,  to predict when a crash is imminent and deploy safety constraints such as air bags a little earlier than in conventional systems

My next post on this topic will include some specific recommendations for a Rural ITS test bed in this region.