Can technology bring large truck accidents down in Louisiana?

Over the years, big rigs in Louisiana and elsewhere in the country have become safer. But at the same time, there are more and more trucks on the road and the denser traffic has sharply increased the risk of accidents.

While better enforcement of existing regulations, like limited hours-of-service and regular truck maintenance, would certainly improve the picture, another trend gives us hope that better truck safety is coming: electronic safety systems.

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ABS, or antilock brake system, is mandatory since 1997-98. Since then very promising new electronic devices have appeared on the market, such as:

Collision warning systems: Using radar, sonar, infrared or laser technology, the system warns the driver when the vehicle comes too close to another vehicle or object. This helps drivers avoid rear-end and lane-change crashes.

Lane departure warning: This system uses video technology to alert the driver when the truck wanders away from its projected path. The system is put on hold when the driver uses his turn signal.

Roll stability systems: A set of sensors gives a warning when the vehicle approaches a yaw or roll edge, and connects with the engine and the brake system to reduce speed and avoid skidding, thereby stabilizing the vehicle.

Electronic on-board recorders (EOBR): Integrating GPS-technology with odometer speed and distance information, EOBRs provide all the information required by government regulations about the truck’s operation and driver’s duties. Replacing the paper log book, it is believed to be more accurate and less prone to tampering.

The biggest obstacle to a widespread use of these systems is cost. Government regulation and incentives will certainly help. Lawmakers are now discussing the mandatory use of EOBRs and it is believed that a number of incentives are being studied to promote the other systems.

Some of the motor carriers are slowly coming to the perception that avoiding accidents is bringing value to their company. We can only hope that they include human life, pain and suffering in their calculations.

If you have been the victim of a serious car or truck accident in Louisiana, contact the attorneys of the Young Firm immediately for a FREE consultation on your case at (504) 680-4100 (local) or (866) 660-7220 (toll free) or by sending us an e-mail.