Dutch ambulances warn road users proactively

Every second counts when an ambulance is on its way to an emergency. Yet, drivers’ reactions to sirens and flashing lights often lead to chaos on the road. Modern cars are so well insulated that drivers only notice an emergency vehicle approaching very late in the process.

This can lead to many dangerous situations, including new accidents involving ambulance drivers, their patients, and other road users. Of course, the delayed reaction time wastes valuable time that can sometimes even save lives.

In 2023, a study by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management showed that 65% of Dutch drivers have difficulty reacting to approaching emergency vehicles in time.

To deal with these dangerous situations, a groundbreaking technological solution has been developed. Monotch’s advanced TLEX (Traffic Live Exchange) system enables road users to proactively respond to approaching emergency services.

“With the help of our partners, we can warn drivers in real-time of approaching emergency services, allowing them to respond adequately and clear the road,” says Erik Vrijens, Program Manager Smart Mobility at the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management.

The innovative TLEX system, integrated into the Urban Data Access Platform (UDAP), uses anonymized vehicle data to warn road users via onboard units and mobile apps.

Thanks to collaborations with major car brands such as Kia and Hyundai, as well as popular navigation and mobility apps such as TomTom and Flitsmeister, this technology can reach many road users. “It is our mission to improve road safety, and the Safety Priority Services project plays a crucial role in this,” says Vrijens.

DOWNLOAD YOUR DETAILED FREE CASE STUDY NOW