Can collision warning systems prevent truck crashes?
It is no surprise that a new study finds if big trucks are equipped with collision warning systems, there will be fewer crashes and our roads will be safer.
The study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that such warning systems and automatic emergency braking systems would eliminate more than 2 out of 5 crashes where a large truck rear ends another vehicle. Front crash prevention systems use cameras or other sensors to monitor the roadway. Some even alert drivers to obstacles in the road and can automatically apply brakes to prevent a crash.
The European Union has required these safety measures on most new trucks for the past 7 years. There are no such requirements in the United States, but trucking companies may want to consider such safety measures when purchasing new vehicles. This could prove to be very cost saving in the long run and would no doubt save lives.
Why are forward collisions involving large trucks are so catastrophic
The United States Department of Transportation estimates there are over half a million truck accidents every year with some 5,000 fatalities. Florida and Georgia are two of the states with the highest number of truck accidents in the country. Tractor-trailers weigh an average of 80,000 pounds and when they collide with cars, the results are often catastrophic. The amount paid in legal settlements is in the billions each year.
One such Pajcic & Pajcic case involved a truck driver who wasn’t paying attention to the road in front of him and slammed into the back of our client, paralyzing him. An automatic braking system certainly may have prevented this tragedy.
Another Pajcic case that might have been avoided, involved a fully loaded logging truck that hit the back of our client’s truck, killing him instantly.
And yet another Pajcic client was involved in a crash involving a truck driver who plowed into the back of 8 vehicles during rush hour on Interstate 95 in Jacksonville.
How crash prevention technology can save lives
Studies conducted by IIHS document that rear-end crashes can be cut in half if vehicles are equipped with the latest safety technology. Property damage and claims for injuries are significantly reduced.
The President of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety believes the benefits are great enough that crash avoidance systems should be standard equipment in all new large trucks.
Since the technology exists, making it standard is a simple solution that would benefit trucking companies and everyone sharing the road with these massive vehicles.
Contact a Florida attorney if you were injured in a crash
Should you or a loved one be injured in a crash involving a large commercial truck, don't hesitate to speak to an experienced Florida truck accident attorney at Pajcic & Pajcic. For more than 45 years, our legal team has helped thousands of clients pursue justice against negligent parties and get compensated for every dollar owed to them.
We serve clients all over the state of Florida and offer free and confidential case evaluations. To get started, contact us online and we'll get back to you promptly.