Abstract

An apparatus for the deployment of a visible plume to alert other motorists that a proximate motor vehicle has been involved in a collision is described as having a tube which is open at one end disposed at the top and closed at a distal end. The distal end houses an activation device that is used to detonate an explosive charge in response to the detection of an output signal. The output signal is generated by a sensor subsequent to the motor vehicle experiencing an impact of sufficient magnitude. Both the sensor and the output signal are compatible with current technologies used to detect impacts which result in the deployment of air bags, and accordingly the device may rely upon these systems as may already be installed in the motor vehicle. The explosive charge expels a signaling media above the motor vehicle in a plume above the motor vehicle to visually alert other motorists that a collision has occurred. The plume rises to a preferred height of approximately 60 feet, making it readily visible to the other motorists in the area. The signaling media includes a powder, liquid, or pyrotechnic device. The pyrotechnic device produces a momentary highly visible flare. An audible signal is generated by incorporating an explosive pyrotechnic device, such as a firecracker, within the signaling media.