California drivers may benefit from recently announced rear-end collision avoidance technology from truck component companies ZF and WABCO. ZF is known for its electro-hydraulic steering system while WABCO is recognized for its OnGuard active braking technology. The new Evasive Maneuver Assist system will build on the strengths of both companies to help reduce the prevalence and severity of trucking accidents in the future.
EMA technology uses sensory information, such as radar, audio, visual and haptic signals, to sense whether a collision is about to occur. If the system senses an impending collision, usually because a car is stopped up ahead, it will alert the driver. When the truck driver does not take action within a given amount of time, the automatic system will take control to either stop or maneuver around the other vehicle.
EMA technology also has the ability to tell if a nearby lane is occupied by another vehicle. If the nearby lanes are filled, the technology will cause the truck to brake as soon as possible in order to reduce the force of impact of the impending collision. The ZF CEO explains that this potentially life-saving technology will be available to the public in the next three to four years.
Truck accidents can cause catastrophic injuries and fatalities, especially when passenger vehicles are involved. Victims may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit to recoup losses associated with such an accident. Medical expenses, pain and suffering, rehabilitation costs and transportation costs are all common examples of the types of damages that victims of a trucking accident might be able to obtain. A lawyer may provide valuable guidance as a victim deals with insurance companies and the truck driver’s attorney.