Knowledge Resources

The SafeTrip-21 Initiative developed new approaches to address distracted driving. Organizations and individuals are becoming increasingly aware of the dangers associated with distracted driving. The U.S. DOT is a leader in terms of delivering this message to citizens and shaping the research which will advance techniques for mitigating distracted driving. In fact, several SafeTrip-21 tests were re-scoped during this evaluation to better address distracted driving concerns. As a result, the SafeTrip-21 Initiative advanced knowledge and technological solutions to reduce distracted driving. Below are some of the lessons learned during the evaluation of the SafeTrip-21 Initiative that focuses on improving safety with the deployment of these applications:

• Assess vehicle location, speed and direction along with the ability to predict potential driving path conflicts and transmit alerts to the driver to provide needed capability to minimize driver distraction.
• Communicate alerts designed to orient drivers to general traffic conditions ahead, and therefore, make them more attentive to the driving environment to help reduce driver distraction.
• Use "Geofencing" as an approach to limiting driver distraction.
• Continue to explore avenues for advancements in technology to prevent driver distraction as well as instilling a safety culture mindset to support the goal of a change in driver behavior.

The evaluation findings in the National Evaluation of the Safetrip-21 Initiative final report indicate that the SafeTrip-21 Initiative has advanced its goals of expanding research related to vehicle connectivity in the wireless communications environment; advancing ITS applications; and exploring benefits of deployment-ready applications that provide enhanced safety, real-time information, and navigation assistance. These findings along with the lessons learned provide a valuable resource to those considering the implementation of ITS applications for improved traffic operations and management.