Semi-trucks can weigh up to 80,000 pounds and are often several times the size of passenger vehicles. As a result, they are capable of causing catastrophic damage and extremely serious injury when they are involved in collisions. In an effort to reduce the frequency of truck accidents, several types of crash avoidance technologies have been developed for semis and other large vehicles. Accidents continue to occur despite these advances, however, sometimes with disastrous results for those involved. It is advisable for people involved in accidents with semi-trucks to retain legal counsel as soon as possible after an accident to ensure they get the compensation to which they are entitled.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) analyzed crashes that occurred over a 4 year period in order to determine the potential crash reductions that would be associated with 4 different crash avoidance systems. These were:
- Side view assist
- Forward collision warning/mitigation
- Lane departure warning/prevention
- Vehicle stability control
According to the Institute, a combination of all 4 of these systems could mitigate 28 percent of all reported large truck collision, or 107,000. In addition, 12,000 nonfatal injuries could be prevented and mitigated. They further state that of all of these technologies, stability control technology has the greatest potential for reducing the total number of truck crashes. Unfortunately, the IIHS reports that adoption of these technologies has been slow in the trucking industry. They further state that of all of these technologies, stability control technology has the greatest potential for reducing the total number of truck crashes.
Contact a Peachtree City truck accident attorney for a free consultation
Victims of semi-truck crashes may be eligible for significant financial compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost income, and damage to property, as well as for other losses. The truck accident lawyers of Shane Smith Law are dedicated to assisting those injured in motor vehicle accidents obtain justice. We work hard to get our clients the maximum compensation available under the law. To schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced lawyers, call our office today at (980) 246-2656.