On a lonely stretch of road, a driver loses control, and a car crashes in the night. The difference between life and death depends on how fast rescuers can pinpoint the emergency and dispatch help. Most people who die early die from bleeding to death. You've got a window of opportunity there that is quite limited.
Some cars already close the gap.
Cars with help systems such as OnStar can send a satellite signal to a private help center, instantly pinpointing the location of an emergency. But newer systems also are being tested for their ability to give rescuers key information about the crash. Instead of spending vital minutes reaching the scene, assessing the damage and calling for more help, rescuers can determine immediately how serious the injuries might be. One such system is being tested by researchers for its ability to tell a private call center exactly what is needed within moments after a crash. Backers say the system might save thousands of lives by getting the most critically injured into operating rooms faster.