Could V2V Technology Help Prevent Motorcycle Crashes?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to be killed in highway crashes than those in other vehicles. Motorcycles are obviously much more dangerous than cars. The motorcycle industry has continually developed ways to make motorcycles safer for cycling enthusiasts.

Safety innovations for motorcycles include safer helmets, stability control, anti-lock braking systems, and better lighting when a bike brakes or even just slows down. An up-and-coming technology could drastically reduce the amount of motorcycle accidents—some say even by one-third.

What is V2V technology?

V2V, or vehicle-to-vehicle, technology is a wireless form of communication that allows vehicles near each other to gauge whether a collision or other safety issue is about to happen, and alert the drivers so they can avoid an accident. Industry supplier Bosch announced a partnership with the company Autotalks this past summer to develop B2V tech—bike-to-vehicle technology.

Using short-range communication technology, motorcycles and vehicles outfitted with B2V or V2V can “talk” while on the road, telling each other their location, speed, braking, and other information. Their on-board computers turn this information into data and processes it into alerts and warnings. For example, a common threat to motorcyclists is cars making left-hand turns in front of them, cutting them off and causing accidents. With B2V, the bike's system would alert the motorcyclist of the approaching car to let them know a collision may be imminent. With the right configuration, the car would also be alerted to the presence of the motorcycle.

The technology also uses “data hopping,” which means that transmission can be relayed through vehicles. So, even though the transmission is short-range, by passing the signal through a traffic line of cars, a motorcyclist or driver can be alerted to an accident several miles up the road.

Of course, V2V and B2V can only work if just about all vehicles on the road carry the same technology. The NHTSA would likely have to mandate a rule requiring the tech in all new vehicles. V2V systems were approved by the NHTSA and the U.S. Department of Transportation back in 2014, but as of yet the government hasn't acted.

Industry experts point to safety and privacy concerns. There is the worry that the specific frequency band the wireless technology would use could get overloaded and cause dangerous communication delays. Some also worry that a wireless network between vehicles could be easily hacked, like the cybersecurity hack on a Jeep Cherokee in 2015.

Regardless of the future of V2V technology, the motorcycle industry will continue developing safety measures for its riders. Motorcyclists have every right to feel secure on the road along with other vehicles.

If you suffer injury in a Maryland motorcycle accident due to the negligence or recklessness of another, speak to the attorneys at Plaxen Adler Muncy, P.A. We work to find out who was responsible and fight to get you compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and lost wages. To learn more, or to schedule a free consultation, please call 410-730-7737 or fill out our contact form.