Automated Right of Way for Emergency Vehicles in C-ITS: An Analysis of Cyber-Security Risks

Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS) provide comprehensive information and communication services to enable a more efficient and safe use of transport systems. Emergency vehicles can benefit from C-ITS by sending preemption requests to traffic lights or other connected road users, thus reducing their time loss when approaching an emergency. This, however, depends on a secure and reliable communication between all involved parties. Potential risks involve cyber-attacks and acts of sabotage. A major issue is the security process applied to provide C-ITS vehicles with the authorisations to exercise the right of way intended for emergency vehicles.