On cards, sensors on bikes to curb distracted driving

The government is exploring technology-driven solutions to combat the rising issue of two-wheeler riders using mobile phones while driving or performing stunts, which significantly contribute to road accidents. A potential plan involves installing touch or pressure sensors on motorcycle handlebars. If a rider's hands are off the handlebars for more than 7-8 seconds, the sensors would trigger the vehicle to decelerate automatically, encouraging safer riding.

This initiative, aimed at correcting unsafe rider behavior, was discussed during a meeting between transport ministry officials and vehicle manufacturers. Officials believe that such a mechanism could substantially decrease distracted riding, particularly the dangerous practice of holding a mobile phone in one hand while navigating traffic. Despite penalties under the Motor Vehicles Act, many riders continue to disregard basic safety regulations. According to one official, a vehicle capable of sensing and responding to unsafe behavior could deter risky actions without constant policing.

Alongside handlebar sensors, manufacturers are encouraged to assess the feasibility of including leg guards on two-wheelers to mitigate lower-limb injuries, which are prevalent in motorcycle accidents. While older models commonly featured leg guards, they are absent in modern two-wheelers.

Government data reveals a significant increase in two-wheeler fatalities, from 69,385 in 2021 to 77,539 in 2023, accounting for almost 45% of all road deaths. Two-wheeler riders are disproportionately represented as both victims and causes of road fatalities. Ministry of Road Transport reports indicate that two-wheeler riders had the highest share of road deaths in 2023, with 48,181 people killed in accidents caused by them.

Distracted driving is a growing concern, with studies showing that even hands-free devices do not eliminate cognitive distraction, which can lead to "inattention blindness," where drivers fail to process up to 50% of information in their driving environment. Research indicates that drivers using cell phones, whether handheld or hands-free, tend to "look at" but not "see" objects, contributing to accidents.

Other technologies are emerging to improve cycling safety, such as the SenseBike system, which uses ultrasonic sensors to automatically measure passing distances in urban traffic, eliminating the need for manual activation and reducing distractions for the rider. The ProxiCycle, a University of Washington-led project, utilizes a small, inexpensive sensor that plugs into bicycle handlebars and tracks when a passing car comes within four feet of a cyclist. The data collected can map safer bike routes through cities.

Radar-enabled lights are also gaining popularity, alerting cyclists to approaching vehicles from behind. These systems communicate with cycling head units, providing visual and audio alerts, and can automatically adjust the light to flashing mode.

While these technologies offer potential safety improvements, challenges remain, including signal interference and the need for improved sensor precision. The integration of these smart devices aims to provide cyclists with early warnings, enhanced visibility, and quicker access to help after crashes.