Maryland Tests New Alert System to Shield Road Workers from Speeding Drivers

Road work zones in Maryland have seen thousands of crashes in recent years, leading to injuries and deaths. Now, researchers at Morgan State University are testing a new alert system to protect workers from speeding drivers. The technology, called Bear Alert, aims to give crews precious seconds to escape danger. Between 2020 and 2024, Maryland recorded 6,701 work zone crashes, causing 2,365 injuries and 50 fatalities. The problem is nationwide—over 100,000 such crashes happened across the US in 2023 alone, with 39,000 injuries, 815 deaths, and costs reaching an estimated $39 billion.

The Bear Alert system uses sensors to detect dangerous vehicles in about five seconds. It then triggers an audible siren, a flashing solar-powered beacon, and a wearable device that vibrates to warn workers. During a pilot test on Hillen Road, where the speed limit was 35 mph, the system logged 288 vehicles going 45 mph or faster, 83 at 55 mph or higher, and 16 at 65 mph or more. Morgan State University has partnered with multiple organisations to deploy and test the technology. The system not only warns workers but also collects data to help authorities implement targeted safety measures. With the patent pending, further pilot tests are planned for Hillen Road and other Maryland work zones.

The Bear Alert system could provide a crucial safety net for road workers facing speeding drivers. By combining real-time alerts with data collection, it offers a way to reduce risks in high-traffic work areas. The next phase of testing will determine its effectiveness in preventing future incidents.