A Queensland university is developing an app designed to warn cyclists and drivers of an impending crash.
The Queensland University of Technology has combined smartphone technology to allow cars and bikes to talk to each other through the app GoSafeCycle.
The app tracks, connects and communicates between devices, using symbols, sounds and vibrations to warn users if there's a reasonable chance of a collision.
A major limitation is that both the driver and the cyclist need their smartphones on them and the app to receive the warnings.
"The idea is based on using existing GPS, WiFi and Bluetooth systems to allow the sharing of information between road users," Dr Sebastian Demmel said.
"If a cyclist and driver are both approaching an intersection at speed, the app will be able to predict impending danger and warn both to slow down."
He said most cyclist deaths involved a collision with a motor vehicle, and these typically occurred because of human error, or from not seeing the other.
On average, 35 cyclists are killed on Australian roads each year and more than 2500 others are seriously injured.
The researchers are collecting cyclists' feedback before they release it to the public.
They are also looking at adding other safety features including a function that automatically notifies emergency services and relatives if a rider crashes and falls.
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