South Australia is conducting a study with a “smart” road barrier that will decrease response time to the site of a crash. The barrier is located in Willunga, Australia.
In the event of a crash, the wire rope technology, which cost $120,000 (roughly $112,000 U.S.), sends an electronic alert to the Traffic Management Centre in Adelaide. Police and ambulances are dispatched immediately to the site, eliminating the need for a personal report of the crash.
The barrier can also detect loose wires and send an alert indicating a need for repair.
The Traffic Management Centre will officially turn on the barrier in late November. If successful, the Transport Department, who is seeking a patent on the road barrier, will install the technology on other roads in South Australia.
