WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Modern Analytics for Roadway Safety (MARS) Coalition and Congressional Artificial Intelligence (AI) Caucus convened a panel of researchers and industry experts to discuss the role of AI and other technologies in transforming America’s approach to road safety.
Congressional AI Caucus co-chairs Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.) and Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) convened this briefing to explore how AI and related technologies can provide more accurate and timely feedback on the prevalent, emerging, and potential risks along our roads.
Data-driven insights allow transportation decision-makers to deploy cost-effective safety countermeasures. Importantly, they also enable planners to design safer infrastructure, rather than reacting and responding to safety challenges after crashes occur.
“The realized potential of AI and predictive analytics isn’t some distant promise–it’s already here. These tools are reshaping how states and communities design and improve their roads, preventing crashes and saving lives,” MARS Coalition executive director Andrew Rogers said. “Now, Congress should help put these proven tools and data in the hands of more transportation leaders to improve safety outcomes and build smarter, safer roads across America.”
The U.S. continues to experience approximately 40,000 roadway fatalities each year. Traditional infrastructure investment efforts often rely on outdated or incomplete data, identifying safety risks only after tragedies occur. Proven technologies, such as AI, telematics, and advanced analytics, can identify risks and predict and prevent crashes before they occur.
“Half a century ago, America’s roads were built for speed, scale, and sprawl. Today, lawmakers have the opportunity to reimagine our infrastructure for the next century and shift from a reactive to a proactive approach to safety,” Rogers continued. “Congress can start by embracing AI, telematics, and other technologies that will pave the way for safer, smarter, and more efficient roads. We look forward to working with members to accelerate adoption of these life-saving technologies nationwide.”
As Congress begins work on the next surface transportation reauthorization legislation, the MARS Coalition is advocating for U.S. policymakers to prioritize funding, programs, and policies that enable federal, state, and local transportation leaders to adopt and deploy those modern safety tools at scale.
About Modern Analytics for Roadway Safety (MARS) Coalition
Modern Analytics for Roadway Safety (MARS) is a coalition of industry leaders, safety advocates, and technology innovators focused on leveraging cutting-edge technology to prevent crashes before they occur. By utilizing telematics, artificial intelligence, and predictive analytics, MARS empowers policymakers to implement solutions that curb dangerous driving behaviors, optimize infrastructure design, and save lives
