TRUCK ACCIDENTS: USING TECHNOLOGY TO PREVENT ROLLOVERS
An average of 35% of the restrained occupants of heavy trucks (weighing in excess of 10,000 lbs) involved in accidents in the United States in 1994, 1995, and 1997 suffered incapacitating or fatal injuries, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA)) in their report on truck rollovers. Significant injuries occur for occupants of tractor trailers involved in a rollover, even when they are restrained. Of course, the rollover impacts other individuals on the roads as well. There is a new system that could help to prevent rigs from rolling over and hopefully reduce the number of fatalities and incapacitating injuries.
The computer program works by employing the brakes on both the right and left sides of the vehicle to prevent a rollover. The system works to enhance driver control.
Meritor WABCO, a manufacturer of stability solutions, describes its rollover prevention technology as follows:
Rapid lane changes and cornering on slippery surfaces can trigger spinout, driftout or jackknifing, often before the driver is aware. ESC's lateral accelerometer, steer angle sensor and yaw rate sensor enhance driver control in these conditions. Brakes are applied selectively to individual wheels on the front and rear axles, as well as the trailer axles, to bring the vehicle back to its intended direction.
If you have been involved in a truck accident, it is important that you contact an experienced attorney to protect your rights.
