The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is always investigating features that promote safety and reduce the risk of car accidents. One of the latest efforts involves Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication (V2V), which is technology that allows vehicles to wirelessly exchange information. By communicating traffic-related factors with other vehicles, V2V can alert drivers regarding threats and enable them to avoid a collision. The NHTSA estimates that, if every vehicle on the road was equipped with V2V technology, 615,000 motor vehicle accidents could be prevented and 1,366 lives could be saved.
There is a long road ahead to get V2V communication installed on every vehicle on the road, so the potential for fatal and injury-causing crashes remains a reality. If you were hurt or lost a loved one, it is important to get in touch with a Miami car accidents attorney right away. You might also be interested to learn more about V2V technology.
Overview of V2V Communication
For more than 10 years, the NHTSA has been working with automakers, experts, and industry leaders to bring V2V to every vehicle made in the US. The technology works in similar fashion to cell phones, but with sensors that collect information about the vehicles around you. When cars are within range, they can exchange information about speed and position. When the sensor detects a threat, V2V notifies the driver regarding the potential for a crash, so he or she can take evasive action. In some accident scenarios, the technology can even respond on its own by applying the brakes or manipulating the steering wheel.
NHTSA Efforts in V2V Technology
In January 2017, the US Department of Transportation proposed rules regarding V2V communication technology on all new passenger vehicles and light trucks. Though the rules are not yet officially law, the DOT wanted to investigate and obtain comments from auto industry leaders on:
- How V2V technology will transmit and receive messages;
- The details of a proposed communication platform;
- Proposed alternative technologies to achieve the same goals as V2V.
V2V Communication in Miami Car Accidents
The only way to achieve the full capabilities of V2V is for every vehicle to have the technology. Even if your car is equipped, it cannot communicate with others on the road. Still, the advantage is that V2V may be useful when proving fault in an accident. The sensors are constantly collecting data regarding surrounding vehicles, even those without V2V. If another driver is negligent, the information gathered by V2V can support your version of who was responsible.
Rely on a Miami Car Accidents Lawyer for Legal Help
Until V2V technology enables all vehicles to communicate with each other, the full extent of the benefits will not be realized – which means auto crashes will continue to be a threat. You do have rights if you were hurt or lost a loved one in a collision, so please contact Gerson & Schwartz, PA to learn more about them. We can set up a no-cost case evaluation at our offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or West Palm Beach, FL to review your circumstances and develop a legal strategy.