There is a continued increase in transportation fatalities across the United States. To address the deadly figures, the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration recently announced a new rule.
The proposal aims to reduce the severity and frequency of crashes by requiring heavy vehicles, such as heavy-duty trucks and buses, to have automatic emergency braking systems within five years. The intention of this new rule is to prevent 19,118 crashes, lessen 8,814 non fatal injuries, eliminate 24,828 property damages and save 155 lives yearly.
To achieve these goals, parameters have been set.
New safety standards
Although the federal proposal may still change until it becomes final next year, here are the released guidelines:
- Heavy vehicles: The gross weight of the vehicle must at least be 10,000 pounds. But it will not be until after three years when the rule becomes final, that braking systems will also be a requirement for trucks weighing more than 26,000 pounds. Further, trucks weighing within the range of 10,000 to 26,000 pounds will have until 2028.
- Automatic emergency braking (AEB) system: This is a system with multiple sensor technologies, which automatically applies brakes, if the driver has not done it yet. It could also supplement the driver’s brakes. It does all these by default if it senses an imminent crash. The AEB system also functions on low- and high-speed accidents, precisely six to 50 miles per hour. Further, a similar rule on AEB systems applies to light trucks and passenger cars.
- Electronic stability control (ESC) system: This is another type of technology enhancing the vehicle’s stability and has other features to assist the driver in steering clear of deadly crashes.
- Bipartisan infrastructure law: This is a mandate the new rule adhered to, which prescribes safety standards comprised of AEB and ESC systems.
NHTSA’s chief counsel, Ann Carlson, has high hopes and expects these new safety standards to address roadway hazards.
A step forward
It takes a collective effort to fight the threats inundating the nation’s roads. But if you are already in a tragic motor vehicle crash in Nevada, the first thing to do is receive urgent medical attention. Then, it will help to seek the guidance of a legal team who can walk you through options and explain the impact of the state’s laws on your circumstances. This way, you can work on a strategic course of action on how to recover fair compensation for your losses.
