The newMercedes-Benztraffic sign assistance system warns drivers if they are driving the wrong-way into oncoming traffic. The traffic sign assistance system is able to recognise no-entry signs and issues an acoustic and visual warning to prevent drivers from driving into oncoming traffic. The new system will be available in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the facelifted E-Class this year and will be implemented into other models in the future.

Mercedes-Benz traffic sign assistance system designed to prevent accidents

The high number of fatal accidents caused by wrong-way drivers, inattentiveness and stress resulting from heavy traffic, has resulted in Mercedes-Benz developing the traffic sign assistance system.

A camera on the inside of the windscreen visually identifies no-entry signs and sends the information obtained to the computer in the on-board electronics. If the system detects that the vehicle is about to pass the relevant prohibitory signs and is entering a motorway slip road, the system warns the driver. Three loud beeps are issued and a red no-entry symbol lights up in the display in order to make the driver aware of the danger.

To further improve the reliability of the system, the electronics compare the data from the camera with data from the navigation system. Other functions of the new Mercedes-Benz traffic sign assistance system includes the detection and display of speed limits and no overtaking signs as well as signs that indicate the end of these particular restrictions.

“On our journey towards the vision of accident-free driving, Mercedes-Benz orientates itself on real-life accident situations in order to provide the best possible protection to all road users. The very idea that we will be using the Mercedes Benz Intelligent Drive system to reduce the risk of vehicles unintentionally travelling against the flow of traffic once again brings us one big step closer to this goal,” said Professor Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development:

The system has initially been designed for use in Germany. However, Mercedes Benz is working intensively on adapting the system for use in other countries.