How the Iowa DOT is redesigning roads for self driving cars.

In a fascinating interview, the Director of the Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT), Scott Marler explains why 2023 had more fatalities than 2022, and why the COVID-related shutdown had a bizarre impact on Iowans lead foots. He also shares how roads are being re-engineered to accommodate mistakes we make when driving, and how they’re anticipating the future of self-driving cars. 

376 Iowans lost their lives on Iowa roads last year, which is more than 2022 fatality rate of 338. Did you know you have a 1 in 366 chance of getting in a wreck this month? And in your lifetime, a 1 in 107 chance of getting killed in a car wreck? Marler’s vision is to bring that number to 0, he discusses distracted driving, where most wrecks happen, and states the obvious: people are still not wearing seatbelts. (What the heck?)

Throughout the conversation, Marler sheds light on both the challenges and innovative solutions being implemented to combat this crisis, emphasizing the critical role of human factors in road safety and the potential for engineering advancements to mitigate risks.

Scott Marler, Iowa DOT, on Iowa Road Safety

Marler begins by acknowledging the alarming statistics of road fatalities, confirming that traffic safety in Iowa is indeed in a state of crisis. He notes that in recent years, Iowa has seen a significant uptick in road deaths, with numbers surpassing those of the last five years. This rise is part of a broader national trend of increased fatalities on the roads.

One of the central themes Marler emphasizes is the substantial impact of human error in traffic accidents, stating, “94 percent of crashes are attributable in some way to human error or human choice.” He argues that while infrastructure and traffic systems can be engineered to reduce risks, the responsibility also heavily lies with individual drivers. Actions such as buckling up, putting the phone down, and controlling speed are simple yet powerful ways to enhance road safety.

Marler discusses several engineering solutions being implemented across Iowa, such as diverging diamond interchanges and cable median barriers, which have proven to enhance safety and traffic efficiency. He also highlights the introduction of new pavement markings and rumble strips, which are not only more visible to drivers but also beneficial for automated driving technologies.

The Role of Technology in Future Iowa Road Safety

Looking forward, Marler expresses optimism about the role of advanced technologies, including autonomous driving, in dramatically reducing road accidents. He mentions that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration projects an 80 percent reduction in crashes with the adoption of high-level vehicle automation. Marler underscores the potential of these technologies to compensate for human shortcomings in driving, although he cautions that the path to fully autonomous vehicles is still evolving.

Marler reiterates the importance of personal responsibility in driving safely. He urges listeners to make conscious choices that contribute to road safety, reminding them that each individual’s actions can directly impact not only their safety but that of others on the road. With ongoing educational efforts, enforcement of traffic laws, and advancements in roadway engineering, there is a hopeful path forward toward significantly reducing road fatalities.

This episode not only highlights the current challenges faced in ensuring road safety but also sheds light on the proactive measures being taken by leaders like Marler to safeguard the lives of Iowans and improve traffic conditions for the future.