Inspired by Sweden, Vision Zero endorses the idea that no loss of life is acceptable, and traffic crashes are preventable. The Vision Zero plan promotes a zero tolerance policy for traffic fatalities. In Fremont alone, there were 21 fatalities and 84 severe injury collisions from traffic crashes between 2013 and 2015.

In order achieve Vision Zero goals, the automobile industry needs to move from protection to prevention of crashes. Silicon Valley companies can support new technologies to help reduce traffic crashes caused by human error. For example, innovations in automated vehicle safety technologies such as crash warning systems, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping systems and automated detection of people walking and bicycling are critical to eliminating the impact of human errors. Furthermore, working with cities, Silicon Valley companies can deploy new technologies to better communicate information between the signal lights and vehicles helping to mitigate traffic congestion. These are just some ideas on how Silicon Valley companies can help cities reach its Vision Zero goal.

For an overview on how advanced technology is making cars smarter and roads safer,check out the recent article and video prepared by the New York Times:

For more information about Fremont’s three-pronged approach to Vision Zero goals, the Safer Streets, Safer People, Safer Vehicles plan, visit https://fremont.gov/2594/Fremont-Vision-Zero-2020