A year-long field test by the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute (UMTRI) and Takata Corporation have shown that an integrated system of crash warning technologies can improve crash avoidance
by making drivers more aware of the traffic environment around their vehicle and their position in the lane. Takata's SafeTraK Lane Departure system was used exclusively throughout testing.

Results from the integrated vehicle-based safety system (IVBSS) study show that 38 percent of drivers thought that the integrated warning systems prevented them from potentially having a crash, and 83 percent of drivers said they would prefer a truck equipped with the integrated warning systems.

"Today's commercial truck driver faces many distractions while on the road for long hours, including drowsiness," says Kirk Morris, vice president, product management and business development for Takata Electronics. "The SafeTraK system helps drivers maintain their lanes, know when to stop for rest breaks, and measure their on-road driving performance real time. It is a comprehensive system designed with unique algorithms, and we believe the UMTRI IVBSS study helps prove our SafeTraK system will greatly improve overall road safety for everyone."

In addition to being tested on trucks, the Takata SafeTraK system was also tested in a passenger car study. Funding for the IVBSS study was provided by the Research and Innovative Technology Administration (RITA) Intelligent Transportation Systems Joint Program Office of the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

The Department of Transportation will present the full results of the UMTRI IVBSS report during a one-day public meeting at Eagle Crest Conference Center in Ypsilanti, Mich. on Oct. 20.

Click here. for more information or to register for the meeting.