Truck drivers have a dangerous-yet-essential job. Without them, commerce grinds to a halt. Nonetheless, the price of a collision can be tragic. Long haulers must operate massive vehicles for long hours, sometimes carrying hazardous substances. The risk is obvious.
Thankfully, technology is here to mitigate the peril. Applied science is reducing the number of collisions involving semis.
Active awareness cameras
The bulky nature of big rigs means drivers have to contend with significant blind spots. No longer do truckers have to rely on mirrors to see others. Now, semis have built-in cameras that actively display side and rear-facing perspectives. Plus, they record data at all times, which may reveal the truth behind a crash when it does happen.
Danger avoidance features
Like modern passenger vehicles, big wheelers now have collision-avoiding technologies. Automatic emergency braking, for example, starts evasive action without a driver being aware. Lane assistance warning devices help stop drivers from sideswiping others. Also, electronic systems can now detect when a driver is getting drowsy and suggest rest.
Touch-free calling systems
Common sense demands that hands remain on the wheel when a truck is in motion. That said, truck drivers must sometimes connect with a supervisor or client. Picking up a phone and dialing while actively hauling remains illegal in most states. Modern shipping vehicles have Bluetooth technologies built-in. Operators can now make and receive calls while heading down the highway worry-free.
Truck drivers play a vital role in our infrastructure. That said, their activity presents a hazard for everyone. For this reason, truck manufacturers are enhancing safety by implementing high-tech help.