Vehicle safety engineers have been working on technology that will enable cars and trucks to communicate with each other on the roadways, and the University of Michigan is about to begin a year-long study of the systems. As many as 3,000 vehicles in the Ann Arbor area will be equipped with the inter-vehicle wireless communication systems for a year-long pilot program set to begin this month, according to The Detroit Free-Press.

"We envision connected-vehicle technology as a platform to save many lives on American's roads and foster innovations we've yet to imagine – a game-changer for vehicle safety," David Strickland, an administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said in a statement. "When completed, the pilot will demonstrate firsthand how connected vehicles communicate in the real world, bringing us a step closer to what could be the next major safety breakthrough."

The technology allows cars to "talk" to one another so they know where other vehicles are in relation to themselves and can warn drivers of possible risks on the road. The NHTSA will monitor the drivers' behavior throughout the year to learn how motorists adapt to the safety technology.

Even if the safety systems prove effective, there will always be risk of accidents. This is why it can be wise to purchase an automobile extended warranty, which can cover the cost of repairs if you are in a car crash.