by Queener Law | Mar 14, 2017 | Colorado, Kentucky, Tennessee, Trucking Accident
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires regular safety inspections and maintenance for commercial trucks. Violations result in trucking accidents and personal injury claims that require truck accident attorneys.
Safety and Maintenance Regulations
The FMCSA requires all motor carriers to perform systematic inspections, maintenance, and repairs on commercial motor vehicles to ensure safe operations. For commercial vehicles, motor carriers must maintain inspection and repair records for each vehicle. Truck drivers are required to complete a written inspection report at the end of each driving day. The report must identify the vehicle and list any deficiencies or defects that may affect operational safety. The motor carrier must then certify that those deficiencies or defects are corrected.
Common Maintenance Safety Problems
Two of the most common safety issues that cause serious trucking accidents are faulty brakes and bad tires. In Tennessee, truck accident attorneys often see serious crashes and injuries caused by large trucks unable to stop in time to avoid accidents and sudden tire blowouts.
Faulty Brakes
According to the FMCSA, faulty brakes are responsible for at least five percent of all truck accidents. Due to the weight of large commercial trucks, standards for brake safety is highly regulated by the federal government. The responsibility for maintenance falls to the truck driver, who is required to inspect the vehicle each day, as well a maintenance specialist who can check for broken or missing parts and air leaks in the brake chamber. Vehicle manufacturers are also responsible for the safety of a truck’s braking system. If a truck’s brakes can’t decelerate it at a rate proportionate to the vehicle’s size, even when maintained properly, liability for the truck maintenance accident may lie with the manufacturer.
Bad Tires
Improper air pressure, worn treads, and mismatched tires contribute to serious trucking accidents seen by truck accident attorneys. The massive weight of commercial trucks — typically 10,000 to 50,000 pounds — requires properly inflated and maintained tires to ensure safe maneuverability and even weight distribution. Improper air pressure, worn treads, and mismatched tires can compromise the safety of the truck, resulting in tire blowouts and serious accidents. Truck drivers are responsible for inspecting their tires for air leaks, tread wear, and sidewall damages. Trucking companies are required to make sure that tires meet federal requirements for tread depth and ensure that drivers do not pair bias and radial tires on the same axle.
by Queener Law | Mar 6, 2017 | Colorado, Kentucky, Tennessee, Trucking Accident
Truck platooning might just bring significant changes to the transportation industry in the very near future. An innovative system that promises improvements in large truck safety, environmental friendliness and overall efficiency, the technology is quickly winning the support of trucking companies, truck drivers and safety advocates across the nation. Although there are still a number of hurdles that must be overcome before truck platooning hits the road on a regular basis, according to Steve Boyd, the co-founder of Peloton Technology which is the leader in developing this technology, Arkansas, Michigan, and Tennessee have all already given the go-ahead for platooning, and about eleven other states are currently considering approvals as well.
What is Large Truck Platooning?
This cutting-edge technology uses hundreds of sensors and highly advanced communications systems to create a semi-autonomous convoy of large trucks that are able to share important data and vehicle control. The innovative “road train” is led by a lead truck that controls the additional truck or trucks through wireless communication. During normal operation, the trucks drive very close together, and when the lead truck reacts to a traffic situation (activating its brakes for example) the following trucks automatically do the same. When traffic conditions demand so, the trucks can disengage to widen the gap between them to allow for things like merging traffic, and then link up again when the situation allows.
The belief that truck platooning is centered around driverless or completely autonomous vehicles is a common misconception. In fact, truck drivers are still very much involved in the operation of the platoon. The lead truck driver’s responsibilities are very similar to what they would be during normal truck operation, and the following drivers still have steering control and access to video monitoring that enables them to see what is going on from the perspective of the lead truck. According to Peloton the system “simply augments driver performance and safety and leverages the cooperative potential between pairs of trucks.”
The Numerous Benefits of Truck Platooning
There are a wide variety of benefits that come with large truck platooning. And since about 70 percent of freight in the United States is handled by the trucking industry, and large trucks make up approximately 4.3 percent of all highway vehicles, truck platooning can have a big impact.
Fuel Efficiency
When trucks are able to travel closer together, aerodynamic drag is significantly reduced which increases fuel efficiency. And the smaller the gap between trucks, the greater the savings. Some studies report that truck platooning can result in anywhere from 4 to 10 percent better fuel efficiency depending on a truck’s position in the platoon. Since about 65 percent of large truck miles are platoonable, fuel consumption in the United States could potentially be reduced by 1.5 billion gallons or more each year. Without common close following distance regulations across all 50 states, however, actual fuel savings will vary significantly from state to state.
Emissions Reduction
Large trucks are responsible for about 7.5 percent of total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the United States. An analysis by researchers from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) reveals that truck platooning could potentially result in a savings of about 15.3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions every year.
Truck Driver Jobs
The shortage of truck drivers in the U.S. has gained a lot of focus in recent years. And while large truck platooning will by no means make the human driver obsolete, the technology could have a positive impact on truck driver shortages. A system that encompasses driver empowerment, truck platoons are expected to transform the truck driving occupation into a more attractive career choice for new drivers and seasoned operators alike. As automation progresses, drivers will be even more highly trained and skilled.
Safety
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) reports that there were approximately 87,000 large trucks involved in injury crashes in 2015 alone. Sadly, about 4,050 large trucks were involved in crashes that resulted in fatalities. Fortunately, platooning technology could bring significant improvements to highway safety. With automated emergency braking systems, dynamic geofencing, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications, and increased driver awareness, large trucks that are equipped with platooning technology will have enhanced performance and safety features that are almost certain to reduce the number of large truck accidents on America’s roadways.
When Might Motorists See Platooning Technology in Action?
Although autonomous vehicles are likely several years away from becoming commonplace on America’s roadways, truck platoons are a different story. It is expected that a commercial two-truck platooning system could be released for fleet operations in the later part of 2017, and in upcoming years the deployment of platoons is only expected to grow. Full-volume commercial deployments aren’t expected until 2018.
by Queener Law | Feb 17, 2017 | Colorado, Kentucky, Tennessee, Trucking Accident
Concussions are frequently seen by a truck accident attorney after trucking accidents, but determining liability requires documented medical evidence. Since post-concussion syndrome presents complex symptoms, diagnosis must be proven and the condition must be shown to be caused by the accident.
What is Post-Concussion Syndrome?
Typically, the onset of post-concussion syndrome occurs within a week or so of a brain injury and clears up in about three months, but in some cases, the patient’s symptoms can last for weeks, months, or even years after the concussion. Post-concussion syndrome symptoms are similar to those of a mild concussion, but they may also include complications such as dizziness, headaches, irritability, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, memory loss, sensitivity to noise and light, and behavioral or emotional changes. Approximately 10 percent of people who suffer concussions in an accident handled by a truck accident attorney will suffer from post-concussion syndrome.
Post-concussion syndrome is one possible result of traumatic brain injury and unpredictable symptoms can significantly affect a person’s physical, mental and economic health. Since the symptoms and severity of post-concussion syndrome vary from person to person, there is no definitive course of treatment or timeline for recovery. Medical care often includes:
- Extended bed rest
- Medication
- Cognitive therapy to restore memory loss
- Vestibular therapy to restore balance
- Physical therapy to restore strength
- Psychotherapy
Determining Liability
Negligence or intentional harm determines liability in an auto or trucking accident. Negligence refers to the failure of a person or group of people to exercise a reasonable standard of care or precaution to prevent the accident. If a person is injured in a trucking accident caused by a negligent driver, that driver would be liable for injuries, including post-concussion syndrome caused by the accident. That driver would also be responsible for damages including medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering caused by the head trauma or brain injury.
When filing a personal injury claim for post-concussion syndrome, documented medical evidence is necessary to prove the case. A person can only claim damages for post-concussion syndrome as part of a personal injury case if his/her physician states in the medical records that it is caused by the accident. A potential problem with claiming damages for post-concussion syndrome is complex and vague symptoms, so some physicians may be hesitant to diagnose the condition. Because post-concussion syndrome presents complex symptoms, a truck accident attorney may be required to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit to recover damages.
by Queener Law | Feb 10, 2017 | Colorado, Kentucky, Tennessee, Trucking Accident
The loss of a tire on a semi-truck can cause the vehicle to veer out of control and cause an accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, tire blowouts cause more than 78,000 accidents and more than 400 fatalities each year.
Causes of Tire Blowouts
Poor maintenance is the leading cause of tire blowouts on semi-trucks and rising large truck accident rates. Operators who fail to maintain the tread and balance of each tire on the vehicle increase the likelihood of a tire failure.
Improperly inflating the tire is the next most common cause of tire blowout. Tires that are overinflated can explode as the pressure pushes the tire beyond operational limits. Under-inflating the tire can allow the rim to cut through it completely.
The third most common cause of tire failure is due to hazards in the roadway including nails, lumber, and rocks.
Effects of a Tire Blowout
Semi-truck tires weigh an average of 107 pounds. These tires contain metal and hard rubber elements that can shatter glass windshields and cause serious bodily injuries when they blowout at highway speeds.
A semi-truck that loses a tire to a blowout can become unstable in the roadway. It can easily lead the semi-truck to topple over or lose its ability to stay in its lane. When this happens, it can cause the semi-truck to veer into other vehicles traveling in the roadway, or off the road and into sidewalks or structures.
Liability for a Tire Blowout
Depending on the cause of the blowout, semi-truck accident lawyers can pursue liability from several parties following an accident.
First, the driver of the vehicle and/or the company they work for could be held liable for poor maintenance or the unsafe operation of the vehicle that caused the blowout.
If the accident occurred because the tire was improperly retreaded or repaired, the company responsible for the retreading or repair could be held liable for the personal injuries and property damage their shoddy workmanship caused.
When the manufacturing process is at fault, then the company manufacturing the tire can be held liable. Such was the case with Bridgestone/Firestone not long ago.
Finally, if an object in the roadway caused the accident, the individual or company transporting the fallen cargo could be held responsible — for example, if a shipment of nails fell off a trailer and punctured tires on vehicles following in the roadway.
by Queener Law | Feb 3, 2017 | Colorado, Kentucky, Tennessee, Trucking Accident
Autonomous truck technology is accelerating quickly, and self-driving large trucks could be rolling down the roadways of America much sooner than expected. In fact, a self-driving truck operated by Uber subsidiary Otto recently completed the successful delivery of about 51,744 cans of beer from Fort Collins, Colorado to Colorado Springs — a total distance of around 120 miles — without a human driver behind the wheel. A driver was in the cab during the trip, however.
Fast Lane to the Facts Surrounding Autonomous Trucks
While advocates claim that these futuristic trucks will offer an abundance of benefits including being much safer and less expensive in the long run, many remain skeptical. A careful evaluation of the reality of automated trucking technology will help separate the facts from the myths.
Myth #1: Robots Will Mean Unemployment for Millions of Truckers
One major concern for truckers nationwide is that autonomous truck technology will cost them their jobs in the near future. This simply isn’t so. According to the American Trucking Associations, it is predicted that by 2024 the current truck driver shortage will increase from around 48,000 truck driver jobs available to about 175,000 available positions. A persistent driver shortage is expected in the decades after that.
Although the new technology may eliminate the need for many truckers and help relieve the driver shortage, the L3 and L4 automated trucks that will be on the roads in the near future will still require a driver to be on board while in operation. The use of autonomous trucks will simply eliminate the need for lengthy rest stops, thereby making the most of the trucker’s time away from home.
Myth #2: Autonomous Trucks Are Unsafe
Autonomous trucks will be equipped with extremely advanced technology that is actually expected to improve safety on America’s highways. 3,903 individuals lost their lives to large truck accidents in 2014. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 94 percent of vehicle crashes can be attributed to a driver. The equipment on self-driving trucks includes GPS, high-powered sensors, laser illuminating detection and ranging (LIDAR), cameras, radar, and advanced software that enables the “robot driver” to make decisions while in operation. Additionally, since truckers will be able to engage the automated system when needed during acceptable conditions, they can handle many of their day-to-day tasks while the truck is still moving. This will significantly reduce the number of crashes caused by distracted driving or driving while fatigued.
Myth #3: Autonomous Truck Technology Will Be More Costly
Although the cost for automated technology will be a significant investment initially, it will pay for itself in the long haul. It is estimated that the technology will cost approximately $15,000 to $20,000 per truck when first installed. Currently, about one-third of the $700 billion-per-year trucking industry’s costs goes toward compensating truck drivers. Since fewer drivers will be required, the savings could be phenomenal. Additionally, automated technology could reduce fuel costs by as much as 7 percent. And with the increased productivity that will occur when robots take the wheel, millions and possibly billions of dollars could be saved.
Myth #4: Autonomous Trucks Will be Able to Operate in All Types of Conditions
While fully autonomous trucks (L5) may be able to operate in all types of conditions in the distant future, the automated technology is currently being designed to be used only on highways and when weather conditions permit. Driving in heavy rain, snow, heavy winds, or inside cities and suburban areas will still be left for the truck driver to handle. Additionally, human truck drivers will still be needed to handle many of the other duties associated with load delivery and pick-up.
Myth #5: Autonomous Cars Will Be Commonplace Before Self-Driving Trucks Fill America’s Highways
While it has been said that the autonomous vehicle industry is geared more toward the average consumer and promoted as an optional luxury for high-end cars, the reality is that self-driving large trucks will likely hit America’s roadways long before private autonomous cars become commonplace. With current technology, autonomous vehicles are being designed with a focus on highway travel, not to maneuver through busy city streets filled with bicycles, pedestrians, or rush-hour traffic. Since large trucks spend most of their time on highways, the technology is currently more fitting for them as opposed to smaller passenger vehicles.
In addition to improving large truck safety, reducing costs for the industry, enhancing the economy, and increasing productivity, it is hoped that the use of autonomous trucks will make truck driving a more attractive occupation, thereby increasing the number of individuals who will choose trucking as a career.
by Queener Law | Jan 24, 2017 | Colorado, Kentucky, Tennessee, Trucking Accident
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration reports there were 97,000 large truck injury crashes in 2015. There were 4,311 fatal truck crashes. That is an eight percent increase over the fatal truck crashes of 2014. The number of truck injury crashes increased by 62 percent from 60,000 in 2009 to 97,000 in 2015. Fatal large truck crashes increased by 20 percent during the same timeframe.
Truck accidents are increasing
Fatal truck accidents claim almost 12 lives every day and the number has been rising steadily every year since 2009. The improving economy means there is increased demand for products and more pressure on drivers to deliver goods on tight schedules. Truck injury lawyers can help victims of accidents caused by overly tired drivers or companies failing to comply with safety regulations. The increase in truck and bus accidents garners little national attention because these crashes are accepted as a normal part of daily traffic news and also because the deaths typically occur in small numbers across the country.
Truck accidents are catastrophic
A Tennessee truck accident in June of 2015 killed six people and injured 18 others. The semi driver was high on meth and had gone 40 hours without any sleep when he barreled through a construction zone at 80 miles per hour, hitting seven vehicles. Thirty-percent of fatal crashes in highway work zones are caused by large trucks, according to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. A large truck is defined as a truck with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or more. Fully loaded tractor-trailers can weigh as much as 80.000 pounds and take well over 500 feet to stop when traveling at 65 miles per hour.
Problems not going away anytime soon
The American Trucking Association (ATA) estimates that there is currently a need for 35,000 more truck drivers and freight tonnage is expected to increase almost 25 percent by 2025. To meet the demand, the industry needs to add about 100,000 drivers every year of the coming decade. The ATA also reports that only 10 percent of commercial trucks on the highway have active safety technology. Companies pressure drivers to deliver goods by a certain time, knowing it can only be done by driving over hours. Regulations that reduce driver hours just put more large trucks on the highways with other motorists. When large truck accidents do occur, truck injury lawyers can hire investigators to search the background of drivers and safety records of companies. The truck injury lawyers can then use that evidence to obtain financial compensation for victims.
