Supporters of self-driving vehicles say they are safer than those operated by humans. Autonomous vehicles don’t drive while tired, drunk, under the influence, or while texting. Even though the law mandates that trucking companies require their drivers to follow a strict sleep schedule and log their hours, there are still many preventable truck accidents caused by fatigue, human error or failure to follow the law and/or guidelines.
Driverless trucks know how to stay in their own lane, change speeds, avoid collisions, and certainly don’t get angry or cut other drivers off intentionally. These new autonomous trucks are equipped with dash-cameras that range 100 meters in order to read road signage, keep the trucks in the correct lane, and scan for vehicles they may need to avoid.
Driverless vehicles are neither hesitant nor heavy-footed. They drive the speed limit, and their acceleration and deceleration are smooth and even – which helps to prevent rear-end collisions and saves on fuel consumption. Autonomous truck convoys drafting one behind the other could use less fuel as air resistance is reduced. Communication between the trucks would coordinate changes in speed and direction.
Currently, the autonomous license to drive Nevada’s freeways requires a person to ride in the driver’s seat in case human intervention is required. Time will tell if these autonomous vehicles will actually make our roads safer.
Have you been involved in a truck accident in the Austin area? Call the experienced truck accident professionals at Terry & Kelly, PLLC. An attorney is always available at 512-910-2000 to provide a free initial consultation and case evaluation.
Due to their sheer mass, weight, and gross cargo contents, large truck accidents are amongst the deadliest accidents that unfold on our highways. What are the greatest risk factors for these accidents, and what can be done about them? Big freight and semi-trailer trucks play a vital role in the transportation and delivery of goods […]
Truck accident liability can be complicated, and trucking companies can often be liable for accidents and injuries. Claims against companies can be challenging, so you want to have representation from an experienced Austin truck accident attorney. If another driver causes a car accident, your claim will likely be focused on an insurance claim with […]