Statistics for 2016 show that over 4,300 people died because of trucking accidents on the country’s highways. Over the past 20 years, the National Transportation Safety Board has recommended on 10 separate instances that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, or NHTSA, needs to do something about requiring anti-crash technology on all big rig trucks. The trucking accident problem is an issue currently being discussed by some members of Congress.
At this time, large trucks are not required to have this relatively new anti-crash technology installed, even though the data from companies that do use crash avoidance equipment shows it could help stop many truck accidents. Some of the available technology includes automatic braking and forward collision preventatives. Industry lobbyists such as Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association do not necessarily want to see the technology required because of the cost but would like to see the decision left up to the discretion of the trucking companies.
Commercial trucking accidents are investigated by the NHTSA, but the recommending board, an independent agency, is awaiting real action on their suggestions. The NHTSA is conducting their own research and hopes to have answers in 18 to 24 months. There is some doubt about the effectiveness of some forms of anti-crash technology, so the agency wants more complete information.
The data does indeed show that truck and car accidents across the nation are continuing to rise as various national agencies try to sort through everything and attempt to make informed decisions. If someone is involved in an accident with a big rig and experiences loss, it may be in their own best interest to contact a personal injury lawyer who understands the laws and may explain how to proceed.
