Ford reveals smart solution that can predict where traffic incidents are likely to occur

Ford has developed a smart solution that could help to identify where traffic incidents are likely to occur – and then enable city authorities to take pre-emptive action

The company analysed vehicle behaviour in London by recording data of driving events such as braking and use of hazard warning lights; together with road accident reports.

The company tracked vehicle journeys in the city and logged highly detailed driving data from driving events such as braking, the severity of that braking, and even where hazard warning lights were applied. This helped to identify “near-misses”. Ford then cross-referenced this information against existing accident reports and built an algorithm to determine the likelihood of where future incidents might occur.

“We believe our insights have the potential to benefit millions of people. Even very small changes could make a big difference – maybe cutting back a tree that has obscured a road sign – whether in terms of traffic flow, road safety or efficiency,” said Jon Scott, project lead at City Data Solutions, Ford Smart Mobility.

The findings were among insights revealed in the new interactive Ford City Data Report, launched to show how the company could help to make travelling in cities easier and safer.