Will New Stopping Technology Prevent Truck Accidents In Jacksonville?
Passenger vehicle drivers often share the roads with large commercial trucks in the Jacksonville area. While these big rigs are crucial to our economy, the accidents they cause can be devastating.
Since large commercial trucks weigh up to 80,000 lbs, it can take them more time and distance to stop than it does for passenger vehicles. All it takes is one wrong maneuver from a negligent trucker to cause a serious truck accident.
New technology explained
To mitigate the potential damage that could be caused by large trucks, the trucking industry is rolling out new stopping technology, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). These new stopping systems use radar sensors and cameras to detect other vehicles. When tested, the technology sounded an alarm in the cab when approaching another vehicle. As the truck drew closer, the alarm became louder.
In addition to systems designed to alert truck drivers of a potential collision, the trucking industry is working on boosting braking power from between 30 and 50 percent all the way to 100 percent.
Pros & cons of stopping technology
This technology is long overdue in the trucking industry. These massive vehicles can cause severe and life-threatening injuries to crash victims. Stopping technology is crucial at preventing fatal truck accidents and protecting other road users.
However, some truck drivers could become too comfortable with this technology. If they become too reliant on it, they may not pay close attention to the road and could become easily distracted.
This poses a serious danger to Jacksonville road users because even the most state-of-the-art systems can malfunction. That's why truck drivers are expected to keep their eyes on the road at all times. This emerging stopping technology is only intended to reduce accidents caused by human error, not eliminate responsibility altogether.
If you or a loved one was injured due to a truck driver's negligence, you may be eligible for compensation for your losses. Don't attempt to handle your claim alone. Truck accidents are often complicated, as many parties and insurance companies are involved. Additionally, trucking companies will go to great lengths to downplay any wrongdoing of their drivers.
That's why it's best to speak to an experienced Jacksonville truck accident attorney who understands how to handle such complex claims. Our attorneys have extensive experience holding negligent trucking companies accountable. Our case results prove it, in our more than four decades we have handled hundreds of trucking cases including a $13 million verdict involving a log truck accident.
Contact Pajcic & Pajcic today for a free, confidential case evaluation.