Semitrailers and commercial trucks are significantly larger and heavier than other types of vehicles on the road. When these vehicles collide with smaller cars and trucks, they can cause significant damage, even if they were moving at slow rates of speed at the time of the crash. This one of the many reasons why Texas truckers should be especially vigilant regarding safety while they are behind the wheel.
Truckers are on the road for long periods of time, often driving for hours on end before they pull over. Consequently, these men and women are prone to fatigue and boredom, two things that can contribute to the likelihood of an accident. While there are many opinions on what steps are necessary to prevent drowsiness in truck drivers, it is possible that wearable technology could be an important way forward in this matter.
How can tech help?
In many ways, technology is actually a significant factor in many car accidents. Thanks to phones and other types of in-vehicle tech, it is easier than ever for a driver to focus on other things while driving. When implemented correctly, technology may be able to alert truckers when they are tired and need a break. Certain types of tech can also monitor how many hours a driver has been on the road, alerting the company if the driver violates hours of operation rules.
There is a newer type of technology that has the ability to sense when truck drivers may be getting fatigued. It’s wearable, and a trucker can place the device in a hat, vest, wristband or even glasses. This tech measures where a driver is moving his or her eyes and head. Typically, a person will look down or around more often when tired as a coping mechanism. It can also detect head bobs, usually a clear sign of falling asleep. It will then issue an alert to the driver.
Smart choices are essential
Truckers are responsible for the choices they make while behind the wheel, regardless of the types of technology they have available to them. If a fatigued individual makes a poor choice that results in an accident, that trucker or trucking company is liable for damages suffered by innocent individuals. If you or a loved one is the victim of a truck accident, you may have grounds to pursue compensation through a civil claim.