Pete HahnloserThe Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) and Michelin Mobility Intelligence (MMI) have joined forces to offer grants to three states for traffic safety data gathering and analysis.
California, Minnesota and Washington will each gather a more up-to-date and comprehensive understanding of traffic safety issues, their root causes and possible solutions.
Michelin will provide near real-time data from more than 45 million drivers across North America, with sources including vehicles, tires and mobile apps augmenting more traditional data sources.
“Data underpins every decision we make in traffic safety. Too often, however, roadway safety professionals are reacting to old, outdated information,” GHSA Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Adkins said. “New and innovative data sources, such as those captured by Michelin, can help states and communities develop a more current, robust and nuanced picture of the most pressing safety concerns and how best to address them.”
In California, MMI’s data will aid the Office of Traffic Safety in measuring the effects of recent traffic enforcement increases and identifying areas where additional resources are needed to discourage hazardous driving. The goal is to decrease fatalities and serious crashes.
Minnesota’s Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety will receive MMI data on distracted driving, speeding and aggressive braking in Hennepin County, home to Minneapolis. This data, coupled with crash records and other safety data, will help identify safety measures to safeguard road users. The insights gained in the county could be applied statewide, the state said.
The Washington Traffic Safety Commission will use MMI’s data analysis to enhance safety in high-risk areas in south King County between Seattle and Tacoma, and Yakima County, particularly in marginalized communities. This includes using the data for community engagement, as well as encouraging infrastructure enhancements and educational initiatives.
“We’re committed to transforming data into actionable insights that can help address risks and enhance mobility for all,” said Erik Dietz, president and chief operating officer of MMI North America. “Our collaboration with the Governors Highway Safety Association marks a significant stride in our mission to help bolster roadway safety. This partnership is not merely a response to an immediate need; it’s a forward-looking endeavor to lay the groundwork for a future where every journey is safe.”
Dietz will present initial progress and insights from these projects in September at the GHSA 2024 Annual Meeting in Indianapolis, covering topics like the role of commercial transportation data in safety planning and collaboration opportunities and challenges.
After a competitive evaluation, California, Minnesota and Washington were selected out of 10 states who submitted proposals that used Michelin data.
Photo by Tony Webster
