OnStar, RapidDeploy Work to Quickly Transmit Crash Data in California

As a public safety professional, you know that when it comes to emergency response, speed and efficiency are key to saving lives. That’s why OnStar is working with RapidDeploy — a cloud-based emergency response platform — to supply more than 400 California Emergency Communication Centers (ECC) with real-time Automatic Crash Response (ACR)* notifications through a first-of-its-kind agreement.

As a result of this initiative, which is scheduled to launch throughout California in May, a majority of telecommunicators will have direct access to available OnStar crash data via their RapidDeploy’s RadiusPlus 9-1-1 map screen.

Driven by Data

OnStar has shared crash information with ECCs since 2004, but, as the data set has grown in volume and sophistication, the relay has become more difficult. In addition, ECCs have experienced challenges determining how to best use and process the information. This is especially true in busy work environments, where call takers often lack the time to process the verbal details from OnStar, enter it into their Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system and then relay it to First Responders.

Now, because of this collaboration, OnStar will automatically send the crash data to RapidDeploy’s Radius Map platform and the appropriate ECC workstation, where the telecommunicator will be able to access it directly on their RadiusPlus 9-1-1 map screen. Although this electronic data does not replace the voice call from OnStar, this helps give emergency personnel the critical information they need to safely respond and quickly rescue the vehicle occupants, when applicable.

Valuable Information

The transmitted data contains a wealth of valuable crash-related information, including:

  • Crash location (latitude/longitude, etc.)
  • Vehicle make, model, year and color
  • Airbag deployment indicator
  • High probability of severe injury indicator
  • Engine type: electric, hybrid electric or internal combustion

Additionally, OnStar’s technology can indicate whether the vehicle involved in a crash is operated by an automated driving system.

Having all of this information transmitted helps increase situational awareness for First Responders, resulting in more informed decisions on dispatch priority and patient care at crash scenes, including whether to transport by ground or air.

“We’re excited about our collaboration with RapidDeploy to bring additional data into the ECC in a usable and consistent format,” says Marc Gramlich, Emergency Services Outreach Leader at OnStar. “It will truly transform ECCs of all sizes by providing data to assist public safety with on-site prearrival needs and reduce response times.”

To learn more about RapidDeploy, visit www.rapiddeploy.com.

*Requires an OnStar plan, working electrical system, cell reception and GPS signal required. OnStar links to emergency services. Not all vehicles may transmit all crash data.