The damage caused by Truck accidents can be severe. In order ensure road safety, the Kansas Corporation Commission have put strict regulations in place to for commercial vehicles weighing more than 10,000 pounds. Mechanical regulations include, but are not limited to, safety hitches, trailer braking systems, tire conditions, and periodic inspections.
According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, 3,195 commercial truck crashes occurred in 2016, resulting in 74 deaths and 934 injuries. In 2015 alone, 400,000 truck accidents occurred nationwide, resulting in 4,067 deaths and 116,000 injuries. Despite the current regulations in place, more safeguards could be implemented.
Adding Safety Technology to Commercial Trucks
A recent study by AAA determined that incorporating safety technology in large trucks has an enormous impact on crash prevention. Such technology includes lane departure warning systems, automatic emergency braking, air disc braking, and video-based onboard safety monitoring systems. Lane departure warning systems are designed to keep drivers from veering out of their lane. AAA projects that this technology can prevent up to 6,372 crashes, 1,342 injuries, and 115 deaths per year.
According a Truckinginfo article, only 6 percent of commercial trucks are equipped with onboard video monitoring systems. This video-based technology is designed to monitor truck safety as well as the driver’s performance. AAA projects that this technology alone can prevent up to 63,000 crashes, 17,733 injuries, and 293 deaths per year.
Automatic emergency braking is designed to stop a vehicle without any action taken by the driver. AAA determines that it can prevent 5,294 crashes, 2,753 injuries, and 115 deaths per year. Lastly, air disc brakes provide a higher caliber of stopping power than standard pad brakes. When implemented on commercial trucks, this braking technology can prevent up to 2,411 crashes, 1,447 injuries, and 293 deaths per years.
If You’re Involved In a Truck Accident, Take No Chances
Following any motor vehicle accident, there are a number of actions you should take. Always secure the scene to ensure your safety and the safety of any other drivers involved. If you’re involved in a commercial truck crash in the state of Kansas, then take no chances. Contact an experienced truck accident lawyer who will ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
