Whether it be minor parking lot fender benders or terrifying freeway pile-ups, the problem of elderly drivers causing chaos is one that rarely goes unreported. While it would be unfair to categorize all aged drivers in the same boat, the risk to other road users posed by those with impaired cognitive abilities is a very real one. In fact, when we asked you whether drivers should be retested every year, virtually all of you commented in agreement.
Meanwhile, it’s no secret that Japan has an aging population. So it comes as little surprise that the country is reported to be developing an AI system to tackle the problems caused by having older drivers remain on the streets.
Japanese-based tech firm NTT Data is in the process of developing an AI system to identify drivers who may be suffering from some form of mental decline. They’re partnering with a Tokyo-based taxi company, Kokusai Motorcars, to develop the software, with data being collected from cab drivers who are 65 years or older.
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According to Nikkei Asia, the AI system will take into account several factors. Data will be gathered from various sensors, as well as GPS information, with events such as sudden braking and acceleration all taken into consideration. Part of the AI’s role will be to determine the ability of drivers to make quick decisions and pay attention to the road.
All data is stored in the cloud, with the initial testing phase scheduled to run until the end of June. Beyond that, NTT Data is reportedly planning on offering the AI system to taxi and logistics companies, two sectors where drivers are aging.
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While the stated aim is to reduce accidents while also detecting the onset of dementia at an early stage, the service will also be made available to insurance companies for a mass-market application. Using sensors and AI could become a way to reduce premiums for the elderly, although it’s not inconceivable that its uses could go far beyond just the application of monitoring older drivers.
Would you be ready to have your driving monitored for insurance or safety reasons? Let us know in the Comments section below.
