Even more safety features are being installed in some of the more reputable semi-truck fleets across the country. For instance, a reputable trucking company has added dashboard monitors that are tied to a front collision warning system.
If a vehicle cuts too closely in front of the semi the mechanism automatically takes away the driver's control of the throttle thereby automatically reducing the truck's speed. If the other vehicle gets even closer - then this safety device actually applies the brakes for the driver!
In addition to the front collision warning system - the cabs themselves are now equipped with a rollover stability feature and lane departure warnings. The warning system works with cameras that are mounted around the vehicle - if the rig does not remain within the middle of a lane or veers too close to the lines that divide the highway. Finally, the company has added what is termed 'adaptive cruise control'.
Other features have been added to increase the driver's comfort on long rides. These include satellite radio and bigger, more comfortable chairs as well as windows with 'wider vantage points and automatically adjustable mirrors'.
No doubt, anything that can be done to make the driver more comfortable is actually a safety feature as well.
While all of these are great add-ons that have shown to decrease accidents through authentic road tests - we urge the trucking industry to continue to search for ways to cut down the number of injuries and fatalities that result from semi-truck accidents.
Greg Baumgartner is commercial vehicle accident attorney and the founder of the Baumgartner law firm, which is dedicated to helping injury victims seek civil justice. For a free no obligation consultation with an 18 wheeler accident lawyer in Houston.
