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Transcript University of Minnesota researchers have high hopes for a new Web site that pinpoints the deadliest places on America’s roadways. “This raises overall awareness for individuals and may influence some behavior.” The Web site is called “Safe Road Maps”… Using Google maps technology, drivers can log on to find out everything from how many people died neared their house in car crashes, to what caused those fatal crashes. “So that you can see what actually happened, the news reports and the people’s lives that were actually affected by this.” “Just like logging on to find out if you have a sunny day ahead of you, or if you should pack an umbrella, SafeRoadMaps.org can help drivers create a road safety forecast.” “The way a weather map communicates about the weather, we think that same type of idea can be used to help travelers understand the safety of road ways.” The site is not just for drivers, but for policy makers, as well. For example, researchers like the U of M’s Lee Munnich, say one option allows users to view how many fatal crashes were to blame on not wearing a seatbelt. “If you could get people to wear seatbelts, if state policies were stricter in enforcement, stronger in terms of seatbelts, you could reduce the number of deaths. Features on the site also allow drivers to see the terrain and vegetation around crash sites, giving them a good idea of what makes an intersection dangerous …and helping them reach their destination safely. “Hopefully, this will all lead to a reduction in fatalities.” For the University of Minnesota, I’m Justin Ware. |
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