New Bear Alert System Tests Real-Time Safety for Maryland Road Workers

A new safety system called Bear Alert has been tested on Hillen Road near Morgan State University. The technology aims to protect road workers after two fatalities in Maryland traffic crashes. Researchers at the university developed the pilot programme to warn crews of speeding or erratic drivers in real time. The Bear Alert system combines multiple sensors to detect threats in work zones. It uses lidar to track vehicle speed and position, triggering alerts when danger is detected. Workers receive warnings through a wearable haptic device, a loud siren, and a flashing solar-powered beacon.

During its first real-world trial, the system monitored traffic over six weekdays. It recorded 50,821 vehicles passing the site, with some exceeding the 35 mph speed limit. Researchers estimate the alerts give workers roughly five seconds to move to safety.

Morgan State University has partnered with several organisations to expand testing. The team is also pursuing a provisional patent for the technology. Beyond immediate warnings, Bear Alert collects traffic data to help design safer work zones in the future. The deployment on Hillen Road marks the first live test of Bear Alert. If successful, the system could reduce risks for road crews across Maryland. The university plans to continue refining the technology based on real-world performance.