This paper describes a Field Operational Test (FOT) of an
Automated Collision Notification (ACN) System, a new way to provide
definitive pre- hospital medical care to people injured in motor
vehicle crashes. This FOT is part of the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration's (NHTSA's) research being conducted
under the U.S. Department of Transportation's Intelligent
Transportation Systems (ITS) program. Management of the program is
by the Office of Vehicle Safety Research in NHTSA.
The ACN FOT is a demonstration of the application of advanced
technology for the improvement of pre-hospital emergency care for
motor-vehicle crash victims. The test, involving approximately 850
volunteers' vehicles, was conducted in rural Western New York
State. A partnership of local public agencies and private
corporations, led by Veridian, Inc., performed the test. This paper
provides the background, FOT status, describes an actual crash, and
describes some technical and institutional issues uncovered under
this program.
We have shown technology feasibility of ACN within a limited
geographical area. Anecdotal evidence shows that we can improve the
timeliness of definitive pre-hospital medical care through the
application of ACN technology. The ACN FOT was the first of many
steps required to complete a nationwide ACN network.