Of all the accidents that a road user can experience, those involving semi trucks tend to be the most devastating. In fact, only a small percentage of semi truck accident victims survive the accident, and those that do often experience long-term or lifelong disability. This can be costly for the trucking industry and the government, but the true burden rests with victims who have lost their quality of life.
Technology experts believe they have the solution that would eliminate such catastrophes: driverless trucks. They are so confident, in fact, that they are already pushing to the testing phase. It is their hope that driverless trucks will be the “new normal” within the next decade. Is this truly a solution, though, and how might this change impact other road users? The following examines the possibilities.
The Possible Benefits of Eliminating Semi Truck Drivers
On one hand, there are some potential benefits to removing semi truck drivers and replacing them with self-driving technology. Many of the truck accident incidents involve fatigued or intoxicated drivers. Some of the accidents are also due to human error, such as failing to notice a driver in the truck’s blind spot or improper lane changes. It is these sorts of accidents that technology may remedy. Yet that increased safety may come at an even bigger cost.
Cost Management May Lead to Compromise
While there are many concerns about driverless technology, including the ability to create a system that would make comprehensive decisions in complex situations, the chief concern is that the industry may push the technology onto the road before it has been proven both safe and effective. Driverless technology would reduce the cost of fuel, and the cost of salaries for human drivers. It is this cost savings that could cause them to make compromises that may endanger the lives of other drivers.
Truck Drivers Are Not Always the Cause of Accidents
It is also worth mentioning that, while many semi accidents can be attributed to negligent truck drivers, it is not always the case. The trucking company, maintenance crew, loading crew, and other agents within the trucking industry may be at fault instead. In some cases, there may be more than one party that is liable for an accident. Driverless technology does not eliminate or remove the negligence of other parties.
Obtaining Compensation for a Truck Accident
Regardless of whether the technology becomes commonplace or not, victims need to ensure they have exercised every right, including their right to pursue full and fair compensation for their losses. Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd. offers comprehensive representation to ensure that victims are protected. In every situation, we fight for the most favorable outcome possible. To discuss your case with one of our Appleton truck accident attorneys, call 920-739-7366 today.
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