Motorcyclists, especially in a state like Michigan, often find themselves dodging potholes and bump in the roads, which can put them in dangerous driving situations. Compared to the cars and trucks of today, motorcycles have lagged behind when it comes to emergency services built in to the bikes. BMW is becoming the first of its kind to offer smart emergency technology, called Intelligent Emergency Call (IEC), for its motorcycles.
The system can be triggered by the rider themselves but can also be enabled by automatic responses. IEC’s speed and lean angle sensors on the bike can tell when the driver has fallen or crashed the bike, and also have the ability to call for medical services depending on the severity of the crash. For example, if a rider is involved in a severe accident, emergency services will be called immediately. If a driver has a lighter crash, however, the IEC offers a delayed response which allows the driver to cancel the call if they are not injured. A GPS signal is sent out to emergency services when the call is triggered.
As described in the picture to the right from a BMW press release, the handle of the motorcycle will include an “SOS” button which will trigger the call to emergency services, a microphone that will capture the rider's voice even from a distance, and a loudspeaker system for the rider to communicate with the dispatcher. A trial involving BMW bikes equipped with IEC resulted in emergency services arriving to the scene of the accident 40% to 50% faster. The European Commission, a group of researchers in charge of the trial run, predicted that an eCall system on motorcycles could save around 2,500 lives every year.
BMW’s new system is expected to launch in Germany next year and to continue to spread throughout European countries shortly after. Unfortunately, BMW does not currently plan to offer the new technology for bikes in the United States any time soon. However, it is possible that other motorcycle companies will begin to test this technology to keep up with safety expectations. Perhaps some of these safety measures will be implemented in the United States. Citizens of Michigan especially, would require and reap the benefits of eCall systems, due to the poor conditions of Michigan roads.
As summer quickly approaches, both drivers and riders have to be aware of one another while on the road. Collisions involving motorcycles can happen in a blink of an eye. These motor vehicle accidents are often caused by car drivers who do not see the bike around them. If you or somebody you know has been in an accident, including collisions involving motorcycles, call The Michigan Law Firm, PLLC. Our attorneys are experienced in handling all types of accidents, can get you the help you deserve. Call us today, at 844.4MI.FIRM for a free consultation.