Teenager Designs Solution for Eliminating Blind Spots in Cars

A 14-year-old from West Grove, Pennsylvania won a $25,000 Samueli Foundation Prize for developing a prototype that would help eliminate blind spots in cars. The idea came to her when she was driving with her mother in their Jeep Grand Cherokee. Her mom did not like driving the vehicle because the A-pillars that support the windshield and provide protection in the event of a crash also created blind spots that made it difficult to see other vehicles in the vicinity. Since the pillars cannot be removed, she figured out a way to incorporate them in her prototype.

The student participated in the Broadcom Math, Applied Science, Technology, and Engineers for Rising Stars (MASTERS) competition for middle school-aged children. Her project, which was called, “Improving Automobile Safety by Removing Blind Spots,” incorporated a webcam, projector, a 3D printed adapter, and retroreflective fabric to eliminate a vehicle’s blind spots. She set up a camera behind the vehicle’s A-pillar. The camera sent the images to a projector, which projected the image onto the pillar. She used the 3D printer to print out a part that would help focus the projector at close ranges. The retro-reflective fabric reflected light from the projector back to the source, making the images clearer.

Blind Spot Accident Statistics Motivated Student

The student was inspired to develop her prototype after learning about how dangerous blind spots can be. During her research, she discovered that there are over 840,000 blind spot-related car accidents every year in the United States. When her brother got his driver’s license, she became even more motivated to proceed with the project. She beat 29 other middle school students to win the prize, which is the top award for the Broadcom MASTERS. Now a freshman in high school, she hopes to develop her prototype, patent the design, and submit the idea to car manufacturers.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 300 people die in blind spot accidents each year in this country. Safety technology continues to evolve, but motorists should be aware of their surroundings and avoid driving in other vehicles’ blind spots, particularly when driving near large commercial trucks. Other steps motorists should take include adjusting the side view mirror so that a small part of the end of the vehicle is visible. Motorists should also adjust the rearview mirror so that it frames the vehicle’s rear window. Avoid tailgating or changing lanes without signaling. Motorists should always make safety a priority when they are behind the wheel.

Baltimore Car Accident Lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton Seek Justice for Victims of Blind Spot Accidents

If you were injured in a blind spot car accident, it is in your best interest to contact the Baltimore car accident lawyers at LeViness, Tolzman & Hamilton as soon as possible. Blind spot accidents are preventable if drivers take the appropriate precautions when behind the wheel. Our experienced legal team will investigate the details of the accident and determine who is responsible for your injuries. We will secure the maximum financial compensation you deserve. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at 800-547-4LAW (4529) or contact us online.

Located in Baltimore, Columbia, Glen Burnie, and Towson, we represent clients throughout Maryland, including those in Anne Arundel County, Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County, Howard County, Montgomery County, Maryland’s Western Counties, Prince George’s County, Queen Anne’s County, Southern Maryland, and the Eastern Shore, as well as the communities of Catonsville, Essex, Halethorpe, Middle River, Rosedale, Gwynn Oak, Brooklandville, Dundalk, Pikesville, Nottingham, Windsor Mill, Lutherville, Timonium, Sparrows Point, Ridgewood, and Elkridge.