Germany is considering the introduction of a new electronic warning system to prevent wrong-way driving down its high-speed motorways. The choice will be up to Transport Minister Alexander Dobrindt, based on the results of field trials of various systems capable of detecting vehicles entering an autobahn from the wrong direction.
The technology is being tested on a realistic mock-up section of highway. The systems send acoustic and visual warnings to wrong-way drivers and alert other motorists to the approaching hazard.
The wrong-way drivers are known as "ghost drivers" in Germany, where around two-thirds of the motorway system carries no speed regulations. Counter-measures in Germany and Austria are limited at present to yellow "stop" signs on slip roads. Traffic broadcasts interrupt regular radio programmes to warn of drivers careering down the carriageway against oncoming traffic, but the flashes only put motorists on guard if a car's radio is switched on.
Police say not all motorists keep their heads when they hear of the impending danger.
Drivers are supposed to immediately pull over and wait until the danger has passed, but many do not, with the result that accidents are almost inevitable.
A sophisticated warning system with induction wires laid into carriageways and hazard alert lights could cost as much as 25 million euros (33 million dollars), said experts from Germany's Automobilclub von Deutschland (AvD) motoring club.
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