Numerous drivers regularly strain emergency service operators' time by mistakenly dialing 999 annually
In a recent study commissioned by the RAC Foundation, it has been revealed that more than 85% of eCall alerts made last year were triggered manually using the SOS button, with about three-quarters being false alarms. This high volume of false alarms has raised concerns about the effectiveness of the eCall system and the need for improvement.
The eCall feature, a system installed in cars and vans since April 2018, automatically dials 999 and provides emergency services with vehicle type and location. It can be activated spontaneously when airbags deploy in a crash or manually by pressing an SOS button often found on the dashboard. However, common causes of false alarms include manual button misuse, poor interface design, system faults, and demonstration presses at dealerships.
To avoid accidentally triggering false alarms, motorists are advised to familiarize themselves with the eCall system controls and proper use, ensuring they understand how and when to press the emergency button intentionally. It is crucial to avoid misuse or accidental pressing of the SOS button, especially during normal vehicle operation or demonstrations. Encouraging manufacturers to improve the user interface to reduce accidental presses through more intuitive design and clearer labeling is also recommended.
The report warns that the eCall system's effectiveness is being undermined by challenges in exploiting the data it provides and a high rate of false alarms. Dr Reed, the author of the report, emphasizes the importance of assessing the true value of eCall and similar technologies and ensuring they reach their full, life-saving potential.
One common misconception is that the eCall SOS button requires a mobile phone to function. However, this is not the case, as the system operates independently of a mobile network. The location of the eCall SOS button varies within the vehicle cabin, often found in the ceiling console by the internal rear-view mirror, behind a pop-out hatch, or on the center console.
The RAC Foundation report also highlights the need for action to explain the unfamiliar eCall system to drivers. National Highways states that the eCall system performs a self-test each time the vehicle is started, eliminating the need for manual checks.
However, the report also warns that up to four million cars and vans fitted with early versions of eCall could have systems that do not work due to reliance on 2G and 3G mobile phone networks, which are being progressively deactivated. This issue underscores the need for ongoing maintenance and updates to ensure the eCall system remains effective and reliable.
In conclusion, while the eCall system has the potential to greatly improve emergency response times, particularly in remote areas and on smart motorways, it is crucial to address the challenges posed by false alarms and system failures. By improving the user interface, educating drivers, and addressing system vulnerabilities, we can unlock the full potential of eCall and similar technologies, ensuring they become valuable tools in saving lives on our roads.
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