Michigan Radio
recently reported that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is considering a rule that would mandate big rigs, buses, and other large trucks to be equipped with electronic stability control systems. This safety system allows a brake to be automatically applied to individual wheels, and is already required to be installed on passenger vehicles.
When a driver loses control of a vehicle, statistics show that an electronic stability control system reduces accidents in which a driver loses control of a vehicle by at least 40%. Experts suggest that that similar benefits would result from requiring larger vehicles to install this system, as well. For instance, the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute estimates that this proposed NHTSA rule could prevent at least 4,600 truck accidents and save 126 lives each year.
If NHTSA opts to enact this rule for big rigs, it could become final in approximately two to four years. At that time, it would be a violation of NHTSA rules for any big rig to lack an electronic stability control system, which could greatly decrease the incidence of accidents involving big rigs.
As Brownsville, Texas personal injury attorneys, we see the devastating consequences of accidents involving big rigs and large commercial vehicles on a daily basis. Our firm applauds the NHTSA for taking a closer look at the benefits of electronic stability control systems in big rigs, and continuing to take steps to improve safety on highways in Michigan and nationwide. Contact us today, our personal injury lawyers are here to help!
