FHP Employs Database to Track Auto Accidents and Address Problem Areas

Florida Highway Patrol Capt. Keith Gaston is using a newly formed database and computer models to track Florida auto accident data and help the law enforcement community identify trends. Capt. Gaston began working on the database nearly ten years ago when he was a graduate student at the University of North Florida. He wanted to develop a way for police to collect and analyze accident information in order to better serve their communities. What began with a single handheld GPS device has now become an innovative program at the University of Florida.

Each morning, the web-based Signal Four Analytics program compiles accident data from throughout Florida and makes it available for anyone authorized to access the information. Signal Four is the police code that officers use to designate auto accidents, and the program allows law enforcement personnel to access interactive maps in real time. Clicking on a dot on the maps allows users to see detailed information about each accident, drawn from more than 300 pieces of information included on a state accident form.

The maps allow users to identify clusters of problems and anticipate and address potential problems at these locations. What began as a regional program in Central Florida three years ago has developed into the current program, which serves law enforcement agencies, traffic engineering planners and others throughout Florida. The program plans to allow additional users such as school boards, emergency medical providers, research institutions and other interested parties in the near future.

James O. Cunningham and other Orlando auto accident lawyers applaud Capt. Gaston’s ambitious project and any other measures that help make Florida roadways safer. The program will likely lead to increased law enforcement at problem locations and may help them establish sobriety checkpoints and other proactive steps to reduce accidents. If you or a loved one has been injured in an auto accident and would like to speak with an Orlando personal injury attorney, call Mr. Cunningham today at 386-243-4994 to schedule a free consultation.

James O. Cunningham

Since 1977, personal injury lawyer James Cunningham has provided effective legal advocacy to people who are injured through the negligent actions of another person or entity throughout the Central Florida area. He fights to obtain recoveries for his clients’ physical and emotional pain and suffering and pursues his clients’ personal injury cases with a commitment to excellence and impeccable preparation.