Technology innovations may help prevent rising truck accidents

In 2005, the U.S. government recommended the adoption of cameras that monitor fatigued driving by emitting an alarm when drivers’ eyelids droop, but many wonder why technology like this has not yet been mandated for truck drivers, Bloomberg Businessweek reported on October 7.

The American Trucking Association petitioned in 2010 for the government to enact regulations that would require truckers to install devices that can limit their speed. Vice President and general counsel for the watchdog group Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety Henry Jasny criticized the government for not taking action. The Transportation Department, however, assured that highway safety is a top priority, and promised to shut down trucking companies with histories of violations and unsafe driving.

The most recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed that large-truck accident fatalities increased by 18% to 3,802 in 2012 from 2009’s record of 3,211. Injuries from such crashes were listed at 77,000 in 2012–up 45% from 2009’s record of 53,000.

The results from a truck accident can be devastating, and the attorneys at Ritter & Associates believe you should not have to pay for damages caused by the negligent actions of another driver. Call our San Diego offices at (619) 296-0123 today to learn how we may advocate for you.