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Collision warning sensors may prevent truck accidents

On Behalf of | Oct 9, 2017 | Truck Accident Defense

There is no denying that tractor-trailers are involved in many accidents each year and that those accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. In fact, in 2015, over 4,000 people died in accidents with large trucks, and more than 116,000 people suffered injuries, according to a recent AAA report. However, the agency’s Foundation for Traffic Safety also predicts that many future casualties can be averted if more trucks are equipped with collision warning sensors and other safety technologies.

Driving in New York is a challenge, and the presence of large trucks can complicate an already hairy drive. A survey of drivers nationwide confirms that 61 percent feel endangered when they must drive with tractor-trailers on the highway. Some of the factors that cause this anxiety include the enormous size and weight of some trucks and the fact that they have such large blind spots. Having advanced safety technology in those trucks may put a lot of drivers at ease.

The research done by AAA shows that making safety upgrades in trucking fleets is cost-effective, since it promises to reduce the expenses related to crashes, such as medical care, property damage and loss of productivity. By including devices such as lane departure warning systems, emergency braking systems and video safety monitoring, AAA predicts tens of thousands of accidents can be avoided, saving countless lives. Including underride guards may also save lives when smaller vehicles crash into the sides and back of a trailer.

While advanced technology such as collision warning sensors is already proving effective in smaller vehicles, its use may have even greater benefits in preventing truck accidents and reducing injuries when those accidents occur. Nevertheless, New York truckers and trucking companies are often on the defense when an accident occurs. An attorney with experience in the issues common in truck accident claims can be an enormous benefit.

Source: trucks.com, “AAA Says Truck Safety Tech Could Stop 63,000 Crashes Annually“, Clarissa Hawes, Oct. 9, 2017

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