Accident Guardian: A Low-Cost Intelligent Collision-Detection System for Enhanced Emergency Response

Abstract

Traffic accidents remain a major global safety concern, particularly when emergency response is delayed due to driver incapacitation, remote crash locations, or the absence of witnesses. In the UAE, delayed accident reporting continues to contribute to avoidable injuries and fatalities, especially for vehicles lacking built-in emergency call systems. This paper presents Accident Guardian, a low-cost, aftermarket intelligent collision-detection system designed to automatically identify severe vehicle impacts and transmit real-time GPS location data to emergency services and designated contacts. The proposed system integrates impact and motion sensors, GPS tracking, and IoT-based communication within a compact in-vehicle module. To reduce false alarms, a driver verification mechanism is incorporated via the vehicle’s dashboard interface, enabling manual cancellation when assistance is not required. The system was developed using an interdisciplinary I-Team and design thinking methodology, combining user-centered design with technical feasibility analysis. Prototype development and simulated crash scenarios demonstrate reliable detection and timely alert transmission, while qualitative feedback from accident survivors, emergency responders, and medical professionals highlights the system’s potential to improve emergency response efficiency and enhance perceived safety. The results indicate that Accident Guardian offers a practical and scalable solution for improving post-crash response, particularly for older vehicles, and aligns with smart-city transportation and road safety initiatives in the UAE.

Keywords: Collision Detection, Road Safety, Emergency Response Systems, Intelligent Transportation Systems, Iot-based Safety Devices

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1007856