You may be wondering how new technology is affecting the rate of motor vehicle crashes, especially those involving big rigs. Data from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration suggests that the impact is negative. In California and across the U.S., there was a 52.6% increase in fatal large-truck crashes between 2009 and 2018. A total of 4,415 fatal crashes were reported to the FMCSA in 2018.
Driver Inattention a Common Crash Factor
The FMCSA announced at the start of 2020 that it will be conducting a new large-truck crash causation study. Among the various changes in technology that it will analyze are the increased use of smartphones behind the wheel as well as of in-cab navigation systems and fleet management systems.
These technologies are increasing driver inattention. You probably know that distracted and inattentive driving is widespread, even among ordinary motorists. Another growing problem is that many truckers overly rely on vehicle safety features like adaptive cruise control. This reaches the point where they mistakenly think they can distract themselves while the tech keeps them safe.
Crash Avoidance Strategies for Automated Vehicles
Researchers intend to create crash avoidance and mitigation strategies for large trucks, even including vehicles with high or full automation. By seeing how current driver assistance systems can be improved, the FMCSA hopes to help guide the future development of automated driving systems.
For Those Filing an Injury Claim
A crash caused by truck driver negligence can result in serious personal injuries to occupants of other vehicles. Victims might find it advisable to have the assistance of an experienced attorney when seeking compensation for medical expenses and other losses that they have incurred.