In a recent article published by the National Safety Council (NSC), journalist Ron Kremer took a ride with a truck driver to examine the effectiveness of the new OnGuard Collision Mitigation System.
Similar to many of the safety features found in newer passenger cars, such as lane departure warning systems and backup cameras, this system helps truck drivers prevent an accident.
Since large commercial trucks can weigh as much as 80,000 lbs, implementing safety technology is of great importance. Even experienced truck drivers are prone to errors in judgment, distracted driving, and falling asleep at the wheel.
Certain features can help mitigate the likelihood of truck accidents happening on Pennsylvania roads. They include:
Currently, truck manufacturers are increasing braking power from 30 to 50 percent to 100 percent. Further testing is also being done to increase stopping power to prevent accidents with pedestrians. However, more can be done to prevent accidents with big rigs.
Marcus and Mack fully support any feature, technological or otherwise, that will make our roads safer. However, it must be said that no amount of technology can replace the importance of a human driver. As we saw in the above NSC article, as well as in the stories we hear of accidents involving self-driving cars, technology is not flawless. Truck drivers still must uphold their duty of care by keeping their eyes on the road, reducing their speed, and getting plenty of rest before getting behind the wheel.
Pennsylvania truck accident lawyers know that safety features like OnGuard are beneficial for alerting a driver of a possible road hazard, but only the driver can completely prevent an accident from happening. If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident, don’t wait.
Marcus & Mack
