The August Good Practice of the Month by the European Road Safety Charter is Bavaria’s “Traffic Light of the Future” initiative, using AI and sensors to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.
Intersections are among the most complex parts of the road network, where different road users interact and potentially hazardous situations can arise. How can modern technologies contribute to safer intersections? One example comes from Bavaria, where the “Traffic Light of the Future” initiative was recognised by the European Road Safety Charter (ERSC) as its Good Practice of the Month for August 2026.
The pilot project, implemented in Essenbach, Bavaria, combines artificial intelligence, cameras, radar sensors and other intelligent systems to improve safety, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists, while also supporting safer and more efficient movements of emergency vehicles. The project was developed by the Central Traffic Management Office of the Free State of Bavaria in cooperation with Yunex Traffic.
Technology responding to real-world situations
One of the key elements of the system is AI-based pedestrian and cyclist detection. The camera can identify pedestrians approaching a crossing and automatically request a green phase. Where necessary, for example for people with reduced mobility, the system can also request additional crossing time.
The technology also addresses risks associated with turning vehicles. An intelligent collision warning system alerts drivers when AI detects an actual conflict between turning motor vehicles and pedestrians or cyclists. This targeted approach is intended to improve safety without generating unnecessary warnings that could lead to habituation.
Another application focuses on cyclist prioritisation. Radar detects approaching cyclists and can extend the green phase, reducing unnecessary stops at intersections. An Intelligent Bicycle Totem also provides cyclists with a recommended speed to help them reach the next intersection while the traffic light is green.
The system also supports safer emergency vehicle movements. Vehicles equipped with an on-board unit can automatically request priority at the intersection, allowing the traffic signal to provide a green phase for their route.
From pilot project to real-world testing
The project was launched in June 2023. Installation of the technologies at a selected signalised intersection and nearby signalised pedestrian crossing took place between August 2023 and January 2024. This was followed by testing and evaluation under real traffic conditions.
The implementation took approximately six months. The AI-based detection system required around one month of training before it was able to recognise road users with an almost 100% success rate. The project also demonstrated that introducing new technologies requires not only technical solutions, but also coordination between stakeholders and the necessary approvals.
Why has the initiative been recognised?
According to the European Road Safety Charter, the initiative demonstrates how available technologies and artificial intelligence can be used to address specific road safety risks at intersections. Its particular strength lies in its focus on vulnerable road users and its ability to respond to specific situations in real time. The technologies used also have potential for application at other locations where road safety risks are particularly high.
Good Practice of the Month: sharing what works
Good Practice of the Month is a regular European Road Safety Charter initiative highlighting concrete road safety initiatives developed by its members. Its purpose is to share experience, results and solutions that can inspire other organisations and be transferred or adapted to different contexts.
ERSC members can submit their initiatives as Good Practices. Submissions should demonstrate measurable impact in addressing a road safety challenge. The ERSC team then selects one initiative each month to be featured as the Good Practice of the Month. Selected examples can also be shared through the Charter’s website, social media, newsletter and webinars.
CDV as the European Road Safety Charter ambassador in Czechia
The Transport Research Centre (CDV) serves as the national ambassador of the European Road Safety Charter in Czechia. In this role, CDV helps bring European activities to the Czech context, connects organisations, supports the exchange of experience and promotes examples of good practice in road safety.
This is why CDV also shares inspiring initiatives from other European countries. Sharing knowledge, experience and proven approaches is an important part of identifying effective solutions for safer transport.