Driving a semi could be a rewarding career. Tractor-trailers and other commercial vehicles remain familiar sights on Indiana roads. Without these trucks moving cargo, don’t expect too many retail businesses to have much in stock. Unfortunately, many trucks become involved in accidents, and some accidents result in terrible injuries. Automatic braking reflects a technological advancement found in many vehicles. Should commercial truck manufacturers face a mandate to install these brakes?
Automatic braking an an attempt to increase safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) performs numerous studies on traffic accidents and their causes. One study examined the potential benefits of adding automatic emergency braking (AEB) and forward-collision warning (FCW) technology to “big rigs.” The IIHS believes that this technology could reduce trucking accidents by about 40%.
Even if a truck doesn’t come with particular safety features, the owner could consider installing it. Doing so might cut down on dangers and serve as a decent loss prevention strategy.
Liabilities and truck accidents
One possible reason why AEB and FCW technology is not found in commercial trucks is increased costs. Manufacturers might not want to decrease profits by adding “perks” to a vehicle purchased for business use. Passenger car consumers might be more inclined to buy a “feature-packed vehicle,” while trucking companies could be happy with a lower-priced, standard model.
Trucking company managers and vehicle manufacturing executives might not realize the added technology could save money. Fewer trucking accidents mean less legal action and insurance claims. Regardless, unless mandated by regulations, manufacturers and buyers could opt out of going with advanced technology.
When a truck accident occurs, the injuries might be severe. Victims may seek compensation to cover their losses. A jury might award a significant amount when a truck driver or their employer turns out to be negligent.
