New Research Shows These Two Things Can Help Reduce Truck Accidents
Truck accidents are often deadlier than accidents involving passenger cars. Seeing as trucks are many times heavier than cars, it’s not hard to see why. However, there is new research that shows these two things can help reduce truck accidents.
Which Two Things Can Help Reduce Truck Accidents?
The two technologies that can help reduce truck accidents are automatic emergency brakes (AEB) and forward-collision warning (FCW). The data gathered by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) notes that vehicles equipped with these technologies are generally much safer than those without, as rear-end collisions are half as likely to happen.
Automatic emergency brakes (AEB) are a technology that allows the car to brake on its own when it detects a possible collision. All AEBs detect other vehicles on the road, and many can tell the difference between vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians. AEBs can also assist the driver if they don’t brake hard enough.
There are also other variants of AEBs. These are often divided by what speeds they can trigger, such as highway speeds and city speeds. Some cars have AEBs that work in one direction, such as forward or backward. Some AEB models allow drivers to customize how sensitive they can be.
Forward collision warning (FCW) systems are designed to alert drivers when they’re about to hit something in front of them. IIHS reports that vehicles with FCW systems are 27 percent less likely to experience rear-end collisions. Often, vehicles will have both AEBs and FCW systems installed, as both complement each other.
There are also FCW systems that allow for customized settings such as how and when they activate. Depending on the manufacturer and models, vehicle owners can choose to turn these systems off. This is done because some drivers prefer to be in full control of the brakes.
The benefit of FCW systems is that instead of only relying on a driver’s senses, the truck will help alert the driver. This comes in handy when the driver is tired, and truck drivers often drive long distances. Having a sharp reminder will save them from hitting others.
The combination of both systems will help truck drivers stay safe on the road. Their line of work is exhausting, and any help is welcome to them.
It’s important to note that no matter how effective these technologies are, they’re not substitutes for being alert at the wheel. Truck drivers can’t treat AEBs and FCB systems as the solution to staying alert on the road. They must be ready in case the systems fail.
Are They Mandatory?
The answer to this question is no. There are no laws put in place that require trucks and other vehicles to have AEBs or FCW systems installed. In fact, many truckers aren’t fond of laws mandating them. In contrast, both technologies are required in Europe. In the US, truckers are only encouraged to install them in their vehicles.
Have You Been Involved In An Accident With A Large Truck?
If you’re in the Orlando area and were involved in an accident with a large truck, then you may be entitled to financial compensation for your pain and suffering. To learn more about your rights after a collision with a large truck, please contact our team of Orlando truck accident attorneys at Payer Law today.
Resource:
consumerreports.org/car-safety/automatic-emergency-braking-guide/
