The role of Safe Systems in achieving Vision Zero

Since 2020, when we shared our first blog explaining Vision Zero, we have seen an ever-increasing number of governments, state bodies, and county councils implementing Vision Zero.  

To achieve the vision of zero road accident-related deaths or injuries the Safe System approach was developed. It promotes a holistic approach across all the stakeholders of the transportation system and has gained traction in the UK and US. The Safe System approach comprises of 5 pillars or elements;  

1. Safe roads
2. Safe speeds
3. Safe vehicles
4. Safe road use
5. Post-crash care

The safe vehicles pillar means that vehicles should be designed and regulated to minimize the occurrence and severity of collisions by utilising safety design principles, and vehicle safety checking systems. Advanced technology is a critical element in ensuring commercial fleet vehicles are safe. 

• Pre-trip and post-trip maintenance and safety checks have become a standard practice across commercial fleets, assisted by connected mobile apps, automated workflows and cloud storage of daily video checks.
• Telematics data that tracks the fuel efficiency of vehicles can also alert drivers and fleet managers to poorly performing vehicles and potential maintenance and safety issues that need investigation.
• Vehicle performance data combined with remote driver reports and alerts is increasingly being used to automate maintenance checks and schedule vehicle servicing or retirement.

The safe roads pillar addresses the safety of all road users, including those who walk, bike, drive, ride transit, and travel by other modes. Regulatory and legal systems are responding to this broader definition with higher expectations of transportation system stakeholders, increasing the consequences of being found at fault for road deaths or injury.  

In the US “nuclear” verdicts are more frequently impacting the trucking industry. This has contributed to insurance becoming more unaffordable and unavailable for some trucking companies. 

The Safe System recognizes human error will occur and proposes actions to reduce the frequency and impact.   

Vehicle mounted smart cameras and sensors are playing an important role in identifying and alerting drivers early to potential road hazards.   

• Artificial intelligence (AI) technology is helping to identify and notify drivers early of collision risks with other vehicles and road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.  
• AI is being adopted to help drivers remain self-aware and alert to driver fatigue and distractions.