See discussions, stats, and author profiles for this publication at: https://www.researchgate.

net/publication/372092332

IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

Chapter · June 2023

DOI: 10.4018/978-1-6684-8098-4.ch019

CITATIONS READS
23 2,734

4 authors, including:

C V Suresh Babu Maclin Vinola P.

Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science
79 PUBLICATIONS 294 CITATIONS 2 PUBLICATIONS 31 CITATIONS

SEE PROFILE SEE PROFILE

All content following this page was uploaded by C V Suresh Babu on 20 April 2024.

The user has requested enhancement of the downloaded file.

322

Chapter 19
IoT-Based Smart Accident
Detection and Alert System
C. V. Suresh Babu
Hindustan Institute of Technolgy and Science, India

Akshayah N. S.
Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, India

Maclin Vinola P.
Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, India

R. Janapriyan
Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, India

ABSTRACT
The smart accident detection and alert system using IoT is a technical solution that detects accidents
and alerts authorities and emergency services. The system mainly relies on sensors, GPS, and Arduino
UNO to detect and collect information about the location and severity of the accident. The system then
transmits this information in real time to the appropriate authorities using algorithms and protocols,
enabling them to respond quickly and effectively, therefore increasing the possibility of saving lives and
benefiting road users, emergency services, and transportation authorities in case of accidents.

INTRODUCTION

The Smart Accident Detection and Alert System is an intricate system to detect accidents and alert
emergency services using Internet of Things (IoT) technology. The objective of this system is to mini-
mize emergency response time and increase the possibility of saving lives in case of accidents (Suresh
Babu, 2023).

DOI: 10.4018/978-1-6684-8098-4.ch019

Copyright © 2023, IGI Global. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global is prohibited.

IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

The system comprises a setup of in-vehicle sensors that record data like speed, GPS location, and
accelerometer readings. A central server receives these data and processes it to determine whether an
accident has taken place. The sensors communicate with the server using 3G, 4G, Wi-Fi or any other
such wireless networks. The server analyses the data using machine learning algorithms in order to
decide if an accident has happened.
If an accident is detected, the system notifies emergency services and designated contacts with details
about the location and severity of the accident. The victim’s friends or family can also receive notifica-
tions from the system informing them of the accident. To send alerts, the system utilizes a variety of
communication methods, including SMS, email, and push notifications.
One of the major advantages of this system is that it can detect accidents even in remote locations
where cellular connectivity is unavailable. In such instances, the system sends alerts via satellite com-
munication. The system can also communicate with existing emergency services, enabling more efficient
and coordinated responses. For example, the system can automatically notify nearby hospitals to prepare
for arriving patients. The system may additionally inform you how many passengers were in the vehicle,
what kind of vehicle it was, and how serious the collision was.
Another beneficial feature of the system is its ability to collect data on driving behaviour, which may
be helpful in improving road safety. The system can acquire data on factors like speed, acceleration, and
braking that can be used to spot unsafe driving behaviours. With the use of this data, drivers can receive
feedback and be encouraged to adopt safer driving habits.
In order to provide additional functionality, the system can be integrated with other IoT devices.
For instance, it can be connected to wearable gadgets like smart watches or health monitors to provide
information regarding the victim’s health status. Emergency services can use this information to provide
appropriate medical assistance.
In conclusion, the Smart Accident Detection and Alert System have the potential to revolutionize the
way we respond to accidents and ensure the safety of drivers and passengers on the road.

RATIONALE BACKGROUND

Accidents may happen anywhere, to anybody, at any time. In many circumstances, the difference between
life and death depends on how soon medical assistance is provided. Drivers can make sure they get as-
sistance as soon as possible in the event of an accident by installing the smart accident detection and alert
system. The smart accident detection and alert system is a technical system that detects accidents and
triggers an emergency response in order to ensure the safety of people involved in an accident. The rising
rate of road accidents, particularly those involving motor vehicles, is what motivated the development of
the accident detection system. These accidents create considerable economic and social consequences,
such as medical expenses, lost productivity, and emotional distress.
Road and highway accidents are a major public safety concern. The World Health Organisation
(WHO) reports that road traffic accidents are the primary cause of death among young people. Also, it
is predicted that by 2030, the cost of road accidents will increase to 5% of global GDP from its current
estimate of around 3%. Therefore, finding ways to minimise the frequency of accidents on the road is
essential and the smart accident detection and alert system is one such solution.

323
 
IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

The system aims to drastically minimalize the rate of road accidents by notifying emergency services
when accidents happen. This may considerably decrease the response time of emergency services, which
is crucial in saving lives. As shown by studies, the earlier emergency services respond, the better the
chances of survival for those involved in an accident.
Furthermore, the system can provide helpful information for accident prevention. Researchers can
identify patterns and trends that may be contributing to the occurrence of accidents by analysing the data
collected by the system. This data can be used to develop accident prevention strategies, like enhancing
road design or implementing stricter traffic rules.
Also, the system provides cost-saving benefits. Medical expenses, vehicle repair costs, and lost
productivity are all major expenses related with road accidents. The system can help to save costs asso-
ciated with accidents by minimising the number of accidents and the severity of injuries. Additionally,
high-risk areas can be identified using the system’s data, and targeted interventions may be developed
to lower the likelihood of accidents occurring there.
To summarise, the accident detection and alert system is a significant solution for reducing the
number of road accidents. It has the potential to drastically reduce emergency response time, minimise
the severity of injuries, provide relevant data for accident prevention, and save costs associated with ac-
cidents. Therefore, it is justified to develop the system, and it is necessary to keep supporting researches
and development to increase the efficiency and dependability of the system.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Define the Problem

Road safety is a critical issue that affects millions of people around the world. Despite significant im-
provements in vehicle safety and road infrastructure, accidents still occur on a regular basis. In fact,
according to the WHO, road accidents are responsible for more than 1.3 million deaths each year and
are the leading cause of death among young people aged 5-29. There are several issues that contribute
to the problem of road safety, including human error, poor road design, and inadequate infrastructure.
Accident detection systems can help to address these issues and improve overall road safety (Kattuk-
karan et al., 2017).

The Need for Accident Detection Systems

Given the significant impact that road accidents can have on individuals and society as a whole, there is
a clear need for these systems. These systems can help to reduce response times, improve overall road
safety, and minimize the impact of accidents on individuals and society. Some of the key benefits of
accident detection systems include (Basheer et al., 2013):

• Improved Response Times: Accident detection systems can help to ensure that emergency ser-
vices are notified quickly, allowing for faster response times and potentially saving lives.

324

IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

• Reduced Risk of Secondary Accidents: When an accident occurs, it can create a hazard for other
drivers on the road. If emergency services are not notified quickly, the risk of another accident
occurring increases. By using sensors and other technology to detect accidents, these systems can
help to reduce the risk of secondary accidents and keep drivers safe.
• Enhanced Road Safety: By alerting emergency services quickly and identifying areas where
improvements in road design or infrastructure may be needed, the system can help to improve
overall road safety.
• Cost Savings: The cost of an accident can be significant, including medical expenses, vehicle re-
pairs, and lost wages. By detecting accidents quickly and reducing response times, these systems
can help to minimize the impact of accidents on individuals and society as a whole (Kattukkaran
et al., 2017).

Road accidents account for 1.25 million deaths each year, making them one of the leading causes of
death. The Post-Accident Response for such an alarming system necessitates rapid and effective emer-
gency care, commencing with the activation of the Quick Accident Response System (QARS) described
in this communication (Rana et al., 2020).
In conclusion, the issues in road safety are complex and multifaceted, with human error, poor road
design, and inadequate infrastructure all contributing to the problem. Accident detection systems can
help to mitigate the impact of these issues by improving response times, reducing the risk of secondary
accidents, enhancing overall road safety, and reducing the cost of accidents. As technology continues
to advance, we can expect to see even more sophisticated accident detection systems that can further
enhance the safety and efficiency of our transportation infrastructure.

Literature Searching

In order to comprehend earlier developments in the subject of accident detection, a few articles on ac-
cident detection algorithms were thoroughly studied and analysed in the survey. There are many methods
for developing such a system to provide diverse features, as well as the engineering of a new system that
can combine every advantage of these algorithms (Rana et al., 2020).
The purpose of an accident detection system is to increase safety by detecting accidents, providing
emergency assistance, and transmitting roadway threat alerts (Kodali & Sahu, 2017). It makes advan-
tage of the eCall system. Vehicle accidents, collisions, and roll-overs are automatically detected. The
Acceleration Severity Index (ASI) assesses the dangers to occupants proposes a Communication Flow
Algorithm in which Backend Systems connect with IoT via Database Management Systems and Web
sites. Gateways connect end devices to the system’s primary communication infrastructure. Data is gener-
ated by IoT peripheral nodes and sent to the control centre presented a situation Detection Algorithm to
identify occurrences, validate their nature, and give emergency services based on the nature of the situ-
ation. In today’s high-speed highways, automatic vehicle accident detection is a life-saving application.
Motorway accidents must be reported to the appropriate authorities as soon as possible. The major goal
of this study is to use RFID and WSN technologies to develop a Real Time Traffic Accident Detection
System (Sherif et al., 2014).

325
 
IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

Summaries

The concept of vehicle accident detection is not unfamiliar, and the automotive industry has made
significant strides in developing that technology. Previously, the same in motorcycles was dormant,
waiting to attain its maximum. The research presented here is an attempt to make a contribution to that
technological field. Through three factors—vehicle acceleration/deceleration, vehicle tilt, and pressure
changes on the body of the vehicle—we are attempting to identify accidents in this instance. The ac-
cident can be recognised with a reasonable success rate using these minute data and an apt algorithm.
Additionally, the GPS coordinates of the vehicle are sent to the emergency services in order to request
assistance (Basheer et al., 2013).
Every time we read a daily paper these days, we see at least one story about an accident. There has
been an increase in the standard amount of vehicles on roads around the world as they become more and
more affordable. Accidents devastate victims, forcing them to lose valuable time and money. Following
comprehensive studies, it has been determined that most of the accidents result in tragic deaths due to
a lack of communication with the appropriate medical authorities and, therefore, a lack of immediate
medical assistance. This technology uses sensors mounted to the vehicle to detect the possibility of a
collision on the road. This incident will be instantaneously communicated to the appropriate people to
ensure that suitable action is taken without delay (Kodali & Sahu, 2017).

Define the Argument

The limitations of most of the systems currently present are that they might not function properly if the
owner’s mobile phone is damaged or disconnected or if the GPS signal was out of range at the time of
the collision (Fernandes et al., 2016).
Lack of basic assistance post-accident is most likely the cause of death considering emergency ser-
vices cannot arrive at the scene in a timely manner. According to analysis, if we shorten the accident
response time by just 1-2 minutes, we can increase the likelihood of saving a person’s life by up to 6%.
Therefore, emergency services should show up ASAP at the scene of the accident. Thus, the primary
objective of the accident identification system is to identify an accident and automatically send a mes-
sage, along with the location, to the registered numbers, like emergency services and relatives. The
system uses preinstalled sensing accelerometer equipment to provide the vehicle’s real-time geographic
location (Basheer et al., 2013). Accidents cause significant loss of life, property, and time, making them
a serious public health concern. Quick access to medical care will save many lives (Chaudhari et al.,
2021). As there are a greater number of vehicles on the road, accidents are happening more frequently
than ever before. 1.24 million deaths a year are the result of vehicular crashes, out of all deaths. The
main contributors to these incidents in India include drunk drivers, fatigue, and poorly constructed speed
breakers (Kinage & Patil, 2019). The frequency of road accidents is rising continuously. Understanding
the mental condition of a driver can help prevent fatal road accidents. The majority of accidents happen
at night because of driver inattentiveness (Das et al., 2017).

326

IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

Detailed Argument

This system is designed to notify a close-by medical unit about the collision in order to provide immediate
medical assistance. In order to determine how bad the accident was, the user’s heartbeat sensor and the
vehicle’s connected accelerometer both sense the tilt of the vehicle. Approximately 20 million people
die every year of road accidents, mainly caused due to ignorance of road safety norms and traffic rules
(Kabir & Roy, 2022).
Additionally, a number of smartphone-dependent solutions have been suggested. Road accidents
frequently result in significant percentages of deaths with minor or severe injuries. Road accidents have
severe aftereffects that typically results in fatalities and physiological anatomical malformation. An in-
corporated in-vehicle automatic accident detection and obstacle detection warning system is what this
effort attempts to create. After evaluating the scenario, the IoT server sends emergency notifications
to various emergency services like EMS, the neighbourhood police and fire department, as well as ad-
ditional receivers like relatives, blood donors, insurers, towing services, etc. One of the most common
instances of a sudden traffic halt is on fast-moving roads and highways where vision is limited (Ajao et
al., 2020). In this study, a mobile tracking application for emergency ambulance services is suggested,
along with a number of vehicle tracking and monitoring system difficulties. When an emergency oc-
curs, the system sends out alert messages. The alert system is necessary to offer information about the
accident’s location or the driver’s whereabouts. Many lives were lost using the traditional approach
because the ambulance driver was unable to arrive at the accident scene in time due to heavy traffic.
This study suggests a mobile app for tracking ambulances in real time using the most recent technology
breakthroughs in cell phones and mobile apps (Sasipriya, 2021).

Drafting

The previous solutions just report accidents to various entities without reporting the reason or severity of
the accident. Many authors have proposed solutions for detecting accidents and determining the causes
and injuries of the incident. Heart-rate sensor is installed in the seat belt as part of the system. When an
accident is detected, the system alerts emergency services via Wi-Fi. The system’s drawback is that a
seat belt must be worn in order to monitor heartbeats. An Accident Detection and Classification (ADC)
system was presented to identify accidents and report their type by combining built-in and linked sensors
on smartphones. To select the optimum ADC model, three machine learning models were examined. Five
vehicle movement parameters—speed, absolute linear acceleration, change-in-altitude, pitch, and roll—
that were used to determine the accident class were taken into account during the testing of the models.
This article introduces HDy Copilot, a programme for eCall and IEEE 802.11p (ITS-G5) that com-
bines multimodal warning broadcast with automatic accident detection. The suggested accident detection
system takes inputs from the smartphone’s accelerometer, magnetometer, and gyroscope sensors as well
as from the car via ODB-II. The driver can configure the application, get road danger warnings from
other vehicles, and stop the countdown when a fake road vehicle crash is detected using an Android
smartphone as the human-machine interface. Because Android OS offers open source APIs that enable
access to its hardware resources, the HDy Copilot was created for this platform. An IEEE 802.11p-based
prototype is connected to the application once it has been tested and put into use (Fernandes et al., 2016).

327
 
IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

The major goal of this study is to develop a Real Time Traffic Accident Detection System (RTTADS)
using RFID and Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) technologies. This paper describes the hardware
prototype configuration for RTTADS, the employed algorithms, and the benefits and drawbacks of the
complete system. Additionally, the setup and application software configuration are elaborated. The
location of the collision, the car’s speed right before the accident and the number of passengers in the
vehicle are all detected by sensors put in the vehicle. The monitoring station receives an alert signal
from the sensors. The monitoring station, in turn, keeps tabs on the scene of the accident and notifies
the relevant authorities of a casualty (Sherif et al., 2014).

Communication and Findings

Today, every time we open the newspaper, there is at least one news item about a traffic accident. The
average number of vehicles on the road worldwide has increased as cars and other vehicles become more
and more accessible. Accidents devastate victims, costing them valuable time and money. It has been
determined via considerable research that the majority of accidents result in fatalities as a result of poor
communication with the relevant medical authorities and the ensuing dearth of prompt medical assistance.
With the use of sensors mounted to the car, this programme assists in detecting potential traffic accidents.
The concerned parties will be informed of this incident right away so that prompt action can be done
(Syedul Amin et al., 2012). Road accidents claim the lives of almost 20 million people worldwide each
year, often because people not following traffic laws and road safety regulations. Accidents can still be
avoided by relying on experienced and prudent drivers. In this chapter, an algorithm was developed to
prevent T-bone and pedestrian accidents, head-on and rear-end collisions (Kabir & Roy, 2022).
There have been numerous studies on predicting and detecting car accidents up to this point, but the
drivers have not been warned in advance. With this project, we aim to prevent accidents. This essay’s goal
is to comprehend the numerous methods that have helped reduce accidents, particularly through accident
prevention and detection. An analysis of numerous proposed approaches including various strategies
for the stages involved, as well as their benefits and drawbacks, is carried out in order to assist in the
selection and implementation of an effective, precise accident alert and detection system. The suggested
system requirements are based on a careful examination of the literature and current solutions. As there
are more vehicles on the road, there are more accidents (Kinage & Patil, 2019).
One of the leading causes of death, traffic accidents account for 1.25 million deaths annually. The
Quick Accident Response System (QARS) suggested in this message should be activated as the first step
in the Post Accident Response for such an alarming figure, which necessitates immediate and efficient
Emergency Care (Rana et al., 2020).

EXISTING SYSTEM

Various IoT-based systems have been developed for detecting and alerting accidents, with the primary
goal of enhancing safety and emergency response times. Typically, these systems integrate a combina-
tion of sensors such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, and GPS modules to detect and locate accidents.
When an accident occurs, the system promptly sends an alert, accompanied by pertinent information
and the accident’s precise location, to designated emergency contacts or services. Additionally, some
systems come with extra features, including remote tracking, automatic messaging and calling, and

328

IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

real-time monitoring of the accident scene. The design and functionality of these systems are tailored
to their specific use cases, such as in vehicles, homes, or industrial environments. While these systems
have demonstrated a positive impact on accident detection and response, continuous innovation and
enhancement in the field remains necessary.

Table 1. Pros and cons

Pros Cons
Early Detection: Identifies possible collisions before they happen
False Alarms: Produce false alarms, due to poor road conditions
and notify the appropriate authorities in order to stop or minimize
or driver behaviour.
the harm that will result from the collision.
Quick Response Time: Instantly identifies the accident with the Technical Glitches: Technical problems involving the software or
help of GPS, which improves the response time of emergency connectivity may affect accident detection systems, causing them
services. to respond slowly or incorrectly.
Privacy Concerns: Due to the fact that some accident detection
Saving Lives: Can help minimise the possibility of deaths by
systems track the location and activity of drivers, privacy issues
instantly notifying the necessary authorities.
may be raised.
Cost: However, implementing the systems can be highly
Cost-Effective: Helps in avoiding unnecessary social expenses. expensive, particularly for economies that are not accessible to
advanced technologies.
Limited Coverage: Accident detection systems could not be
effective in all locations, particularly in remote regions with
limited network connectivity.

Drawbacks

• The accuracy of many existing accident detection systems is limited due to the use of sensors that
are not always reliable in detecting accidents. For instance, sudden stops or bumps in the road may
be falsely identified as accidents, leading to false alerts.
• There is often a delay in the response time of certain accident detection systems in alerting emer-
gency services or other relevant parties following an accident. This delay can be particularly prob-
lematic in situations where immediate medical attention is necessary.
• Many accident detection systems are constrained in their coverage area, and thus may be unable
to detect accidents in remote or rural areas.
• Some accident detection systems produce a high number of false alarms, which can lead to user
fatigue and compromise the overall effectiveness of the system.
• Numerous existing systems are not integrated with other emergency response systems such as
police departments, resulting in longer response times and a lack of coordination between differ-
ent responders.
• The installation and maintenance costs of certain accident detection systems can be high, making
them unaffordable for individuals or small businesses.
• Some systems raise privacy concerns as they may gather personal data like location or driving
habits.
• Certain accident detection systems rely on external infrastructure like cell towers or internet con-
nectivity, which can be unreliable in certain areas or during emergencies.

329
 
IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

REQUIREMENT ANALYSIS

The Smart Accident Detection and Alert System based on IoT technology is an intricate system that
requires a thorough requirement analysis in order to make sure that all the associated features and speci-
fications are integrated. The following are some significant system requirements.
Hardware Requirements: Sensors, microcontrollers, GPS modules, and communication modules
constitute the hardware components required by the system. Accelerometers, gyroscopes, and collision
sensors are examples of sensors. The hardware must be reliable as well as resistant to adverse conditions.
Software Requirements: The system requires software to process data from sensors, analyse the
data, and communicate with the server. The software must be efficient, fast, and able to handle massive
amounts of data. The software should also be able to generate real-time alerts and notifications.
Real-Time Monitoring: Real-time vehicle tracking and accident detection should be made possible
by the system. Changes in the vehicle’s acceleration, speed, and orientation should be detected by the
system.
Automated Emergency Response: In the event of an accident, the system must be capable auto-
matically send alerts to emergency services. The software should be able to notify emergency services
of the location and severity of the accident.
Data Management: Large amounts of data should be able to be stored and managed by the system.
This comprises of data from sensors, GPS, and communication modules. The data should be safely
stored and easily accessible.
Battery Management: To ensure that the system can run for a long time without needing frequent
battery replacements, it should have an effective battery management system.
Cost-Effectiveness: The system should be affordable and readily available to the users. This will
guarantee that the system can be accepted and used broadly.
User-Friendly Interface: The system should have an understandable and easy-to-use interface. The
interface ought to provide the accident’s location, severity, and other relevant information.
Maintenance and Support: The system must be easy to maintain and provide the users with proper
technical support. It should also be possible to regularly update and upgrade the system.
Privacy and Security: The system should be designed to preserve the users’ privacy and security.
This includes safeguarding personal data and ensuring that the system cannot be hacked or exploited.

SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS

Vehicular Communication

Vehicular communication refers to the use of wireless communication technology to exchange informa-
tion between vehicles or between vehicles and roadside infrastructure.

• Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) Communication: Vehicles share information such as speed, position,

direction, and brake status in V2V communication. V2V communication allows vehicles to detect
impending collisions and provide warnings to drivers, supporting in the prevention of accidents.

330

IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

• Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) Communication: V2I communication involves vehicles com-

municating with roadside infrastructure such as traffic lights, road signs, and toll booths. V2I com-
munication can deliver real-time updates to drivers regarding road conditions, traffic congestion,
and detours, therefore minimising travel time and improving safety.
GPS
• GPS can indicate the location of the vehicle or person involved in the accident, making it a crucial
component of the system.
• The GPS receiver can be attached on the vehicle and connected to the microcontroller unit (MCU)
so that when an accident takes place, the MCU can use the GPS data to pinpoint vehicle’s location.
• Also, by analysing GPS data from a fleet of vehicles over time, accident-prone zones can be pos-
sibly identified and efforts can be taken in order to improve road safety in those locations.
Accelerometer Sensor
• In this system, an accelerometer sensor can be used to determine the vehicle’s acceleration and
direction. The accelerometer can be installed within the vehicle to monitor drastic shifts in veloc-
ity that may indicate an accident.
• When a vehicle is involved in an accident, the quick deceleration causes the accelerometer to de-
tect a large shift in velocity. This change activates the system, which can alert emergency services
and other drivers on the road.
GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication)
• In this accident detection system, GSM technology can be utilised to deliver real-time notifica-
tions and alerts to emergency services and other relevant parties.
• When an accident happens, the system can detect the impact and estimate the severity of the inci-
dent using sensors and algorithms. When an accident is detected, the system can transmit an alert
message to a central server through a GSM module.
• The location, the time, and the severity of the accident may all be specified in the alert message.
The alert message can then be forwarded to emergency services such as the police, fire depart-
ment, and ambulance services by the central server. This allows emergency services to attend to
the accident quickly and effectively.

Micro-Controller Unit (MCU): A MCU can be utilised to control and coordinate the different
components of the system. The MCU has the ability to process the sensor data from accelerometers,
GPS receivers, and other system sensors in order to trigger the alarm or notify the emergency services.

Arduino UNO
◦◦ Arduino UNO is a popular microcontroller board that is compact and affordable as well as
simple to program and integrate with other sensors and devices.
◦◦ In this system, the Arduino UNO board can be used to read data from sensors to detect the
impact, and orientation of the vehicle and to determine the location of the accident.
◦◦ The Arduino UNO can use the GSM module to send alert message as soon as an accident
is detected. The board can also be programmed to perform other tasks like turning on the
hazard lights or turning off the engine to stop further damage or injury.

331
 
IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

SYSTEM ARCHITECTURE

Figure 1. Components and working of the smart accident detection and alert system

Figure 2. Flowchart of the smart accident detection and alert system

332

IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

PROPOSED SYSTEM

The system has multiple applications, including automobiles, industrial locations, and public areas. The
system’s versatility is one of its primary advantages. As a result, it’s a useful tool for increasing safety in
a number of settings and shortening response times to accidents. To detect accidents, our system employs
a number of sensors, including an accelerometer, a GPS sensor, and a microphone. The accelerometer
detects rapid changes in motion that may signal an accident, while the GPS sensor determines the loca-
tion of the accident. The microphone detects sound waves, which contributes to determine the type of
accident that took place. The system’s speed and precision are two of its primary assets. Our system can
detect incidents within seconds of them happening and accurately relay alerts to emergency services.
This makes it useful for shortening response times and assisting those in need. A further advantage of
our system is its capacity to collect relevant information on accidents and near-misses. This data can be
utilised to detect trends and patterns that will assist in the future improvement of safety. For instance, if
our system notices a high rate of collisions at a specific intersection, this data can be used to make the
intersection safer.
Overall, the system is highly profitable and dependable, and it has the potential to improve safety
in a number of situations. Our system is responsive, precise, and versatile, making it a useful tool for
shortening reaction times and assisting those in need. We believe the accident detection and alert system
has the potential to save lives and have a huge impact worldwide.

Testing and Evaluation Process for the System

• Sensor Testing: To ascertain that each sensor is functioning correctly and providing accurate data
by comparing sensor readings with a known standard.
• System Integration Testing: Integrating each sensor into the overall system and verifying that
the system detects accidents precisely and triggers alerts as required.
• Field Testing: Where the system is tested in real-world conditions to assess its performance, re-
quiring deployment in various settings and monitoring for an extended period.
• Data Analysis: Data collected by the system is analysed to determine its effectiveness, encom-
passing assessing the system’s detection accuracy, false alarm rate, response time, and other rel-
evant metrics.
• Performance Optimization: To improve the system’s effectiveness. Optimization may entail re-
calibrating sensors, adjusting algorithms, or making other system modifications.

333
 
IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

Performance Metrics Used to Measure the System

Table 2. Performance metrics and explanations

Performance Metric Explanation

Detection time The period it takes for the system to identify an accident and trigger an alert.
Accuracy The ratio of alerts activated by the system that match actual accidents.
False alarm rate The proportion of system-generated alerts that are not genuine accidents.
Response time The duration it takes for emergency services to respond to an alert triggered by the system.
User satisfaction The extent to which users perceive the system as user-friendly and effective in enhancing safety.
The frequency and complexity of maintenance operations necessary to ensure the system’s
Maintenance requirements
efficient operation.
Cost The expenses related to installing, running, and maintaining the system.

IMPLEMENTATION

A smart accident detection and alert system is a system that detects accidents and alerts emergency
services by utilising advanced technology such as sensors, GPS, and wireless communication. The
implementation of such a system takes multiple stages and necessitates precise planning and execution.
The first step in implementing a smart accident detection and alert system is identifying the system’s
core components. Sensors to detect accidents, a communication system to provide alerts to emergency
services, and a control unit to operate the system are common components. Accelerometers, gyroscopes,
and GPS sensors can be employed in the system to detect sudden shifts in acceleration or rotation, as
well as the vehicle’s location.
After identifying the system’s core components, the next step is to design the hardware and software
components. This includes selecting the proper sensors and communication equipment, as well as build-
ing the algorithms that will analyse sensor data and trigger an alert if an accident occurs. The system’s
control unit is in charge of coordinating communication between sensors and emergency services, as
well as providing an interface for users to engage with the system.
After the hardware and software components are set up, the system must be built and tested. This
includes assembling the hardware, programming the software, and testing the system under various cir-
cumstances to ensure that it works properly. To ensure that the system can detect accidents and provide
notifications to emergency services, it should be tested in both simulated and real-world circumstances.
Once built and tested, the system can be installed in vehicles or other locations where accidents are
likely to occur. Mounting the sensors in the appropriate locations, connecting the communication devices,
and setting the control unit are typical installation steps. After installation, the system should be tested
again to ensure that it is working properly.
Finally, to ensure that the system continues to perform properly throughout time, it should be moni-
tored and maintained. This includes monitoring the operation of sensors and communication devices, as
well as updating software and hardware as needed. Regular maintenance and upgrades help ensure that
the system remains to be reliable and effective in detecting and alerting emergency services to accidents.

334

IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

In conclusion, there are a number of steps involved in the implementation of a smart accident detec-
tion and alert system, such as identifying the system’s essential components, designing the hardware
and software components, building and testing the system, installing the system, and monitoring and
maintaining the system over time. A smart accident detection and alert system can be an effective tool
for increasing traffic safety and minimising the effects of accidents with careful planning and execution.

FUTURE WORK

The accident detection and alert system could benefit from a number of potential upgrades and enhance-
ments as technology evolves. Here are a few advancements that can be made to the system in the future:

• The accuracy and dependability of accident detection system is one area for development. In order
to reduce the number of false positives and ensure that emergency services are only notified in the
event of a true emergency, the system must be able to distinguish accidents from other events that
might set off false alarms by using advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques.
• Real-time audio and video recording capabilities could be added to the system as another potential
upgrade. This could provide supportive proof for insurance claims and legal actions, as well as
improving the accuracy of accident reconstructions.
• Integrating this system with advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) is another prospective
improvement. ADAS systems can give drivers instantaneous information about their surround-
ings, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and potential hazards. Integrating ADAS with this
system may make it possible to identify accidents more quickly and correctly while also giving
emergency services more comprehensive information about the accident.
• Accident detection system might potentially be integrated with techy accessories like smart watch-
es or fitness trackers. Additional information like driver’s heart rate and blood pressure readings
could assist emergency responders in determining the severity of the collision and in providing
appropriate treatment.
• Finally, the system might be integrated with autonomous vehicles to trigger emergency responses
such as automatically stopping the vehicle, potentially improving safety.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the accident prevention and alert system can be a crucial instrument for improving traffic
safety and minimising the occurrence of accidents if implemented. To identify possible dangers, alert
drivers, or take control of the vehicle to avoid a crash, the system combines sensors, cameras, and other
technologies.
The efficiency of accident prevention systems has been thoroughly researched, with overwhelmingly
favourable results. These systems have been proven to drastically reduce the number and severity of
accidents, making roadways safer for everyone. Collision avoidance systems, for example, can reduce
rear-end crashes by up to 40%, while lane departure warning systems can reduce single-vehicle crashes
by up to 20%.

335
 
IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

The system, however, has a few drawbacks. Environmental factors such as weather, road conditions,
and sensor quality can restrict their effectiveness. The system also depends on sensors and cameras,
both of which require regular maintenance to keep them operating as intended. Furthermore, the system
cannot replace safe driving practices, and drivers should constantly be conscious and alert when driving,
rather than relying only on the system to avoid accidents.
Overall, the accident prevention and alert system is a useful tool for preventing accidents and im-
proving road safety. As technology advances, we may anticipate more significant enhancements in the
system’s ability to identify and prevent an even wider range of potential hazards. The user can make our
roads safer for everyone by integrating the system with safe driving habits.

REFERENCES

Ajao, Abisoye, Jibril, Jonah, & Kolo. (2020). In-Vehicle Traffic Accident Detection and Alerting System
Using Distance-Time Based Parameters and Radar Range Algorithm. 2020 IEEE PES/IAS PowerAfrica,
1-5. . doi:10.1109/PowerAfrica49420.2020.9219812
Basheer, F. B., Alias, J. J., Favas, C. M., Navas, V., Farhan, N. K., & Raghu, C. V. (2013). Design of
accident detection and alert system for motor cycles. 2013 IEEE Global. Humanitarian Technology
Conference: South Asia Satellite (GHTC-SAS), 85-89. 10.1109/GHTC-SAS.2013.6629894
Celesti, Galletta, Carnevale, Fazio, Ĺay-Ekuakille, & Villari. (2018). An IoT Cloud System for Traffic
Monitoring and Vehicular Accidents Prevention Based on Mobile Sensor Data Processing. IEEE Sensors
Journal, 18(12), 4795-4802. doi:10.1109/JSEN.2017.2777786
Chaudhari, A., Agrawal, H., Poddar, S., Talele, K., & Bansode, M. (2021). Smart Accident Detection
And Alert System. 2021 IEEE India Council International Subsections Conference (INDISCON), 1-4.
10.1109/INDISCON53343.2021.9582163
Das, A., Ray, A., Ghosh, A., Bhattacharyya, S., Mukherjee, D., & Rana, T. K. (2017). Vehicle accident
prevent cum location monitoring system. 2017 8th Annual Industrial Automation and Electromechanical
Engineering Conference (IEMECON), 101-105. 10.1109/IEMECON.2017.8079570
Fernandes, B., Alam, M., Gomes, V., Ferreira, J., & Oliveira, A. (2016). Automatic accident detection
with multi-modal alert system implementation for ITS. Vehicular Communications, 3, 1-11. doi:10.1016/j.
vehcom.2015.11.001
Kabir, M. F., & Roy, S. (2022). Real-time vehicular accident prevention system using deep learning
architecture. Expert Systems with Applications, 206. doi:10.1016/j.eswa.2022.117837
Kattukkaran, N., George, A., & Haridas, T. P. M. (2017). Intelligent accident detection and alert system
for emergency medical assistance. 2017 International Conference on Computer Communication and
Informatics (ICCCI), 1-6. 10.1109/ICCCI.2017.8117791
Kinage, V., & Patil, P. (2019). IoT Based Intelligent System For Vehicle Accident Prevention And De-
tection At Real Time. 2019 Third International conference on I-SMAC (IoT in Social, Mobile, Analytics
and Cloud) (I-SMAC), 409-413. 10.1109/I-SMAC47947.2019.9032662

336
 
IoT-Based Smart Accident Detection and Alert System

Kodali, R. K., & Sahu, S. (2017). MQTT based vehicle accident detection and alert system. 2017 3rd
International Conference on Applied and Theoretical Computing and Communication Technology
(iCATccT), 186-189. 10.1109/ICATCCT.2017.8389130
Rana, S., Sengupta, S., Jana, S., Dan, R., Sultana, M., & Sengupta, D. (2020). Prototype Proposal for
Quick Accident Detection and Response System. 2020 Fifth International Conference on Research
in Computational Intelligence and Communication Networks (ICRCICN), 191-195. doi: 10.1109/
ICRCICN50933.2020.9296153.11
Razzaq, S., Riaz, F., Mehmood, T., & Ratyal, N. I. (2016). Multi-Factors Based Road Accident Preven-
tion System. 2016 International Conference on Computing, Electronic and Electrical Engineering (ICE
Cube), 190-195. 10.1109/ICECUBE.2016.7495221
Sasipriya. (2021). Accident Alert and Ambulance Tracking System. 2021 6th International Conference
on Communication and Electronics Systems (ICCES), 1659-1665. 10.1109/ICCES51350.2021.9489078
Sherif, H. M., Shedid, M. A., & Senbel, S. A. (2014). Real time traffic accident detection system using
wireless sensor network. 2014 6th International Conference of Soft Computing and Pattern Recognition
(SoCPaR), 59-64. 10.1109/SOCPAR.2014.7007982
Suresh Babu, C. V. (2023). IoT and its Applications (1st ed.). Anniyappa Publications.
Syedul Amin, M., Jalil, J., & Reaz, M. B. I. (2012). Accident detection and reporting system using
GPS, GPRS and GSM technology. 2012 International Conference on Informatics, Electronics & Vision
(ICIEV), 640-643. 10.1109/ICIEV.2012.6317382

337

View publication stats