April 20, 2015
The RACQ has called for the heavy vehicle industry to install life-saving technology in trucks in a bid to reduce the number of serious crashes on Queensland roads.
New research by the Monash University Accident Research Centrehas found Autonomous Emergency Braking Technology could reduce the number of heavy vehicle crashes by up to 25 per cent.
RACQ Executive Manager Technical and Safety Policy Steve Spalding said more than 18 per cent of Queensland road fatalities last year involved heavy freight vehicles.
“Heavy vehicle fatalities are over-represented and we need to do all we can to reduce the number of serious crashes,” Mr Spalding said.
“A lot of research in the past has investigated the benefits of fitting crash avoidance technology to light vehicles, but this is the first time we’ve seen evidence of its effects in heavy vehicles.”
Mr Spalding said there was also evidence to support the introduction of other crash avoidance technology.
“Lane departure warning systems, electronic stability control and fatigue warning systems were also examined and found to prevent as much as 6 per cent of heavy vehicle fatalities nationwide,” he said.
“We are only going to be seeing more heavy vehicles on our roads in the future which risks even more serious or fatal crashes.
“Truck drivers are working under intense deadlines and are often driving long distances on roads that aren’t always in the best condition.
“By choosing vehicles with the latest safety technology, the industry can help make their jobs safer.”
