Accident detection and alert system using object detection algorithms. A case study for Bindura · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Magadza, Mirirayi C.

Title

Accident detection and alert system using object detection algorithms. A case study for Bindura

Abstract

Road traffic accidents are a significant global concern, accounting for thousands of fatalities and injuries each year. One of the critical challenges in reducing the impact of such incidents is the delay in detecting accidents and notifying emergency services. This research project focuses on the design, development, and evaluation of an intelligent Accident Detection and Alert System aimed at addressing these delays by leveraging real-time monitoring and automated communication technologies. The primary objective of the system is to detect road accidents as soon as they occur and immediately send alerts to the relevant authorities for a rapid response. The system utilizes object detection algorithms, integrated with sensors and cameras, to monitor vehicular movements and identify unusual patterns indicative of an accident, such as sudden stops, collisions, or vehicles failing to stop at designated zebra crossings. When an accident or traffic violation is detected, the system automatically generates a text-based alert containing essential information, including the precise GPS location, time of the incident, and severity level. This alert is then transmitted via mobile network or internet services to emergency response units such as ambulance services, police departments, or nearby hospitals. To evaluate the effectiveness of the system, simulations and controlled field tests were conducted, with a focus on accuracy, detection speed, and the reliability of alert transmission. The results demonstrated that the system can significantly reduce the time taken to report accidents and improve the efficiency of emergency response. Furthermore, user feedback gathered through interviews and questionnaires confirmed the system’s practical relevance and potential for integration into existing traffic management infrastructures. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to enhance road safety through technological innovation. It recommends future improvements such as the inclusion of AI-based severity assessment, integration with national traffic databases, and expansion to support pedestrian safety features. The findings affirm that intelligent accident detection and alert systems can play a transformative role in minimizing the consequences of road traffic accidents and saving lives.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Accident Detection

Object Detection Algorithms

Supervisor

Mr. D. Ndumiyana