3 Technologies That Can Make 18-Wheelers Safer On The Road
Large truck crashes claimed the lives of 4,136 people in 2018, reflecting a 31% increase compared to 2009 when it was the lowest it has been. People traveling in smaller vehicles are often at a disadvantage when accidents occur involving large trucks. Vehicles such as 18-wheelers often weigh 20-30 times more than a passenger car. They are also taller with higher ground clearance. In addition, the braking capability of large trucks also plays a role in crashes, as due to their size and weight, braking times are slower and longer. Fortunately, crashes are preventable, and by using the right technology, it is possible to improve the safety of large trucks on the road.
Semi-Autonomous Trucks
One of the major reasons why accidents occur is distracted driving. The effects of distracted driving are horrible, reducing driving performance and causing rollovers, collisions, or near miss accidents. Deaths and injuries occur as a result of 18-wheeler accidents, and aggrieved parties of accidents often require the services of a specialist 18 Wheeler Accident lawyer to represent their interests in litigations.
Deploying semi-autonomous trucks on the road is one way to reduce accident rates and improve the efficiencies of 18-wheelers. These long-haul vehicles are fitted with sensors that will assist in mimicking defensive driving. They will follow safe distances and speeds, and the main aim is safety on the road for everyone. At the moment, driverless truck technology is being tested on the road with a human driver behind the wheel to oversee the system. Autonomous technology is definitely a game changer for the trucking industry that will reduce accidents caused by human error.
Collision Mitigation And Reduction Tech
18-wheelers are likely to create big damages when involved in a road accident due to their larger size and mass. Although research shows that it is usually the passenger vehicle drivers who are at fault in these accidents, any type of collision involving large trucks means expensive lawsuits and claims. Consequently, reducing avoidable collisions is in the interest of companies and owners for public safety and to preserve the profitability of trucks. Installing advanced collision mitigation systems helps in monitoring crashes and employing emergency actions when needed. Using radar and video monitor to scan the road ahead for obstacles reduces rollovers and loss of control. Blind spot protection in new systems are also offered, enabling the driver a good view of hidden obstacles or other vehicles.
A dvanced Camera Systems
In-cab camera systems have been around for some time, but they are getting better in quality and capability. Better known as dash cams, they are used by the trucking industry to protect the fleet and driver from potential insurance claims, saving companies money. Another advantage of new camera systems is that they serve other purposes apart from recording videos. Data analytics, advanced scene recognition, and smart sensing can assist in reducing distracted driving by monitoring driver activities.
Accidents and crashes involving 18-wheeler trucks are preventable. Advances in technology such as smart camera systems, data analytics, collision prevention, and autonomous trucks are expected to assist in reducing road deaths and injuries.
