Could Self-Driving Trucks Save Lives?

In 2020 alone, there were over 65 truck-related fatalities in the state of Illinois. Trucks represent a real danger for drivers in the Prairie State, and many people are asking how we can improve things in the future. One of the most obvious hazards is human error. Truck drivers often find themselves driving for over 10 hours straight without breaks. Fatigue and stress can make drivers more susceptible to mistakes while behind the wheel, and these mistakes can have deadly consequences. In order to address this issue, some have proposed a radical, technologically-advanced solution: driverless trucks.

If you have been injured by a truck-related accident in Illinois, the advent of driverless technology might be too late, too little. Your best bet at this point is to consult with a qualified, experienced personal injury attorney. These legal experts can help you pursue justice, and they’ll assist you as you seek compensation for your damages. That being said, driverless technology could help prevent further accidents in the future, sparing innocent victims the injuries and mental anguish that you’ve been forced to endure.

What Causes Truck Accidents in Illinois?

There are a number of potential hazards that could cause truck accidents in the state of Illinois. Some of these have to do with human error, while others involve the truck itself or the trucking companies involved. Here’s a basic rundown of common hazards:

• Intoxicated drivers
• Improperly loaded cargo
• Insufficient inspections
• Speeding
• Unlicensed drivers
• Drivers without proper permits
• Drivers who have been operating for too long without breaks

Could Driverless Trucks Help?

The advent of driverless trucks could help address many of these common hazards. In 2018, it was announced that Embark was developing a modified Peterbilt tractor with driverless technology. This new driverless truck managed to travel 2,400 miles from Los Angeles to Jacksonville, Florida in just over five days.

Right now, the most likely scenario is a driverless truck that still has a human operator inside. This operator would merely be in charge of monitoring the truck and watching for any signs of concern. According to the official automation guidelines, this is known as Level 2 Automation. Embark has announced that it wants to reach Level 4 Automation, which requires no driver at all.

In theory, this new technology would cut down the number of truck accidents, potentially saving lives. While some drivers might not feel comfortable with a driverless truck on the road next to them, the data seems to suggest they are safer than human-operated trucks. In addition, Embark has stated that they believe driverless technology will create more jobs rather than making human drivers obsolete.

Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today

If you’ve been searching Illinois for a qualified, experienced personal injury attorney, look no further than Michael J. Brennan, Injury & Accident Lawyer. For decades, Michael J. Brennan has been helping innocent accident victims in Illinois get the compensation they deserve. Brennan specializes in truck accidents, so reach out today and begin your journey towards justice.

Michael J. Brennan – Injury and Accident Lawyer

16521 106th Ct
Orland Park, IL 60467
Phone: 708-460-9300
Fax: 708-349-8015