Coventry Reduces Road Collisions by 88% with AI Technology

Near misses involving vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists have been significantly reduced at a junction in Coventry, thanks to innovative artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The intersection of Grange Road and Anderton Road in Longford experienced a remarkable decrease of over 88 percent in such incidents, according to data from Transport for West Midlands (TfWM). This initiative has prompted the installation of a pedestrian refuge by the Coventry City Council, utilizing funding from TfWM, which has effectively slowed down turning traffic and lowered the risk of collisions.

During National Road Safety Week, West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker emphasized the importance of road safety, stating, “One life lost on our roads is one too many. That’s why I’m committed to Vision Zero – no more deaths on our roads. We need to use every tool available to make journeys safer for everyone and this new AI technology is helping us prevent collisions before they happen.” He further noted that Coventry is pioneering the integration of AI-driven safety measures.

The implementation of AI sensors at the junction has led to a notable decline in average vehicle speeds, which dropped from 14-16 mph to 10.5-12.5 mph. The pedestrian refuge has effectively discouraged drivers from cutting corners when turning into Anderton Road from Grange Road, enhancing safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

The AI-powered vision sensors function by detecting and documenting near misses, such as instances where vehicles come dangerously close to slower-moving pedestrians or cyclists. This proactive approach allows authorities to identify potential collision hotspots before any injuries occur. Traditionally, highway authorities relied on data from actual accidents to pinpoint safety concerns, often requiring that someone be harmed before action could be taken.

At the Grange Road junction, sensor footage prior to the installation of the refuge revealed alarming close calls, including moments when vehicles nearly collided with a mother pushing a child in a stroller and a dog walker. The initiative is part of a broader pilot program involving 40 sensors installed at various junctions across the region to evaluate the effectiveness of this technology.

Cllr Patricia Hetherton, Coventry City Council’s cabinet member for city services, expressed pride in the city’s role as a leader in road safety innovation. “Slowing turning traffic and protecting pedestrians and cyclists shows how technology, funding from West Midlands Combined Authority, and local action can work together to save lives and make our streets safer for everyone,” she stated.

The Vision Zero initiative represents the long-term goal of the West Midlands Combined Authority, aiming to ensure that no one is killed or seriously injured on the region’s roads. By 2030, the objective is to halve the number of road deaths and serious injuries, aligning with global standards for road safety.

As Coventry sets a precedent with its use of AI technology to improve road safety, the results serve as a compelling case for other cities looking to enhance their traffic management and reduce accidents. The combination of innovative solutions and community action presents a promising path forward in the ongoing effort to create safer urban environments.