You can see that commercial trucks are massive, causing disproportionate amounts of death and destruction, considering that they represent around just 6% of the total traffic crashes in the US. To protect motorists, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has implemented numerous regulations on the mandatory safety equipment that must be onboard all semis, 18-wheelers, and other big rigs. Some are the basics that you expect, such as fire extinguishers, spare fuses, and warning devices like flares.
However, truck technology has become extremely advanced in recent years, with the goal of ensuring the safety of all motorists on the road. The FMCSA may require certain systems by rule, but the trucking industry also self-regulates through its own initiatives. Truck safety equipment may not prevent all crashes, so you will need a Maryland truck accident lawyer if you were affected. Still, it is useful to review truck safety features intended to protect you.
Automatic Emergency Braking:
This technology uses cameras and sensors to detect a potential crash before it happens. AEB is one safety feature that will take action rather than merely issuing an alert. The system will autonomously activate the brakes to slow the truck to avoid a collision.
Adaptive Cruise Control:
The upgraded version of cruise control will adjust speed instead of staying where the operator sets it. Adaptive cruise control works through sensors to detect slowdowns in traffic, reducing speed as necessary.
Speed Limiters:
In trucks that are equipped with adaptive cruise control or similar technology, this equipment acts as a governor to prevent the operator from accelerating beyond an established speed limit. FMCSA currently has a proposed rule regarding speed limiters, but they are not yet required equipment.
Dash Cams:
Forward-facing cameras record video to track the truck’s movements, and the newer models are much more detailed with nighttime driving. Some are also dual-facing, so they capture video of the trust operator’s actions, such as distracted driving.
Wearable Technology:
Similar to smartwatches, truck operators can now wear devices that will alert them if there is a risk of fatigue. The technology works through biometrics that detects a slower heartbeat. Plus, there are glasses that a driver can wear, which measure eye blinking. When the lid closes for too long, the glasses send an alert to a dash-mounted device that issues an alert.
Dynamic Routing:
This technology helps a truck driver avoid situations where truck accidents are more likely to occur. In real-time, dynamic routing can detect traffic issues or bad weather and direct the
Speak to a Baltimore County Truck Accident Attorney About Your Rights
If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a trucking crash, please contact Michael A. Freedman to discuss your legal remedies. You can call 410.363.6848 or go online to schedule a case assessment with an experienced Maryland truck accident lawyer. After reviewing your circumstances, we will explain your remedies for seeking compensation.
