At the forefront of innovative research, North Carolina A&T State University is harnessing the potential of artificial intelligence to tackle a pressing issue: animal-vehicle collisions. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, these collisions result in around two million accidents annually, causing approximately 200 fatalities. The study primarily targets rural communities in North Carolina, where the intersection of wildlife and roadways presents a unique challenge.
The core mechanism of this groundbreaking project relies on advanced sensors designed to detect animals approaching roadways. When an animal is detected, a real-time warning system activates, sending alerts to a visual dashboard in a simulated driving environment. This technology aims not only to elevate driver awareness but also to fundamentally change the way we interact with our surroundings while driving.
Leading this research initiative is Professor Ali Karimoddini from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. He highlights the intricate challenges faced in rural areas, particularly concerning the interplay between regular vehicles and farming equipment. “A farming vehicle that is slowing traffic can create different types of challenges,” Karimoddini explained, emphasizing the need for tailored solutions in these regions. He also pointed to infrastructural limitations, where rural areas often lack essential digital tools to alert drivers about potential hazards like flooding.
CR2C2 – Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, North Carolina A&T State University
As the project progresses, the data collected thus far is extensive and promising. Karimoddini shared insights into driver behavior during various scenarios, emphasizing the significance of reaction times under different weather and lighting conditions. “We are analyzing how fast drivers can react in diverse situations, from heavy rain to nighttime driving,” he noted.
Moreover, part of their research involves studying the nuances of driver interactions—specifically, how drivers respond when approaching animals on the road. The intention is to gather data not just from North Carolina, but to eventually expand the study to rural areas nationwide, aiming to implement effective solutions across the country and significantly reduce animal-vehicle collisions.