ARCHIVED - Smart traffic cones hit the road in Spain
The devices will warn drivers in real time of any roadworks in Spain
The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has begun rolling out its new road safety devices across Spain: smart traffic cones that alert drivers, in real time, to any roadworks on their route. The authorities believe this will cut down on accidents since motorists will have advance warning of any obstructions or changes to traffic flow.
With built-in geolocation and bright, flashing lights, the cones can be placed on the roadside by construction workers and traffic incidents will be automatically activated at the Management Centre of the DGT. All information relating to that stretch of road will be shared on the DGT 3.0 Platform and the National Access Point, so drivers can check for any problems along their route before setting out on a journey.
The traffic cones are designed not only to ensure the safety of motorists, but also that of road maintenance workers.
Each year, more than 10,000 separate instances of roadworks are carried out on Spanish roads, resulting in around 100,000 traffic management incidents including road closures, the narrowing of lanes and detours. In 2021, according to the National Registry of Traffic Accident Victims, 158 claims were made in relation to road maintenance works, 17 of which involved members of the work crew or pedestrians.
Of the 17, two people lost their lives, reportedly due to drivers speeding along a stretch of road under construction.
The innovative traffic cones have been launched this week to coincide with a new DGT surveillance and control campaign. From Monday October 24, for the first time ever, traffic officers will spend a week paying special attention to vehicles travelling on interurban roads where works are being carried out. They will be watching out for speeding along these sections, non-compliance with traffic signals, inappropriate lane changes and general driver distraction.
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Image: Ministerio del Interior
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