Unlike the dark roads we drive on by night today, the Solar Roadways will have LEDs which will "paint" the lanes, and can be instantly customized as needed.
Many people tell us that they, like us, have trouble seeing the road lines at night, particularly when the oncoming headlights are blinding them or when it's raining. With an illuminated highway, accidents will be reduced and nighttime driving will be safer for all.
This picture on the left is an area in England where solar road studs light up the lines on the road at night. A recent study showed that they reduced night time accidents by 70%.
There is no need to expend energy lighting desolate roads when no cars are traveling, so the intelligent roadway will tell the LEDs to light up only when it senses cars on its surface - say 1/2 mile ahead and 1/4 mile behind the vehicle as it travels. This way, drivers will know an oncoming car is ahead when they see the lights on the other side of the road begin to light up ahead.
The LEDs can also be programmed to move along with cars at the speed limit, warning drivers instantly when they are driving too fast. The LEDs will also be used to paint words right into the road, warning drivers of an animal on the road, a detour ahead, an accident, or construction work. Central control stations will be able to instantly customize the lines and words in real time, alleviating traffic congestion and making the roads more efficient as well as safer.
SOURCES: www.solarroadways.com
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