Researchers Dr Long Truong and Erik van Vulpen were awarded funding from the Safer Motorcycling Grants Program for their respective projects.
Dr Truong, from the School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematical Sciences (SCEMS), secured more than $288,000 to design and test motorcycle-specific warning signs, including both static and smart signage.
The project is being delivered in partnership with the Victorian Motorcycle Council and Road Solutions.
Mr Van Vulpen, Deputy Director of La Trobe’s Centre of Technology Infusion, received over $281,000 to investigate whether Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) can improve driver awareness of motorcycles, by enabling better detection of riders at intersections.
The project is being delivered in partnership with Toyota, the Connected Motorcycle Consortium, Yamaha Motor Co, Cohda Wireless, the Department of Transport and Main Roads, as well as iMOVE CRC, and is supported by the Cooperative Research Centres program, an Australian Government initiative.
Motorcyclists continue to face disproportionately high risks on Victorian roads, accounting for a significant share of road fatalities and serious injuries, despite making up a small proportion of total travel.
Dr Truong said his research responds directly to this safety challenge.
“Generic road warning signs are not always effective for motorcyclists, particularly at locations where road conditions pose specific risks. This project will focus on developing signs that speak directly to motorcyclists,” Dr Truong said.
Mr Van Vulpen said motorcyclists were often overlooked in complex traffic environments, particularly at intersections.
“Our project shows how connected vehicle technology can help make riders more visible to other road users, adding a powerful new layer of awareness that has the potential to prevent serious crashes,” Mr Van Vulpen said.
Deputy Vice Chancellor Research and Innovation Professor Chris Pakes congratulated both researchers on their innovative work.
“These projects are excellent examples of La Trobe’s commitment to research with real world impact,” Professor Pakes said.
“By working closely with industry and community partners, our researchers are helping to deliver practical solutions that improve safety and save lives on Victorian roads.”
SCEMS Dean Professor Wenny Rahayu also commended Dr Truong and Mr Van Vulpen on their successes.
“These funding outcomes are strong endorsements of both Long and Eric’s expertise, as well as the importance of applied research that directly addresses community safety challenges,” Professor Rahayu said.
“Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable road users, and these projects show how innovative, evidence-based design can play a critical role in reducing risk and preventing harm.”
