Truck traffic accidents are a serious problem that affects both road safety and the environment. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1.3 million deaths from traffic accidents were recorded in the world in just one year, and trucks were responsible for a significant portion of them. In addition, trucks generate a large amount of polluting emissions that contribute to climate change and the deterioration of air quality.

In this situation, technology is presented as an ally to improve the safety and efficiency of trucks. That is why we will analyze some of the most relevant technological advances that can reduce truck traffic accidents and their negative consequences.

Technological advances that can reduce truck traffic accidents: intelligent systems, sensors, cameras

Intelligent systems are those that allow trucks to communicate with other vehicles, with road infrastructure and with control centers. These systems can provide useful information to the driver about traffic conditions, weather conditions, optimal routes, loading and unloading points, etc. Thus, the driver can make better decisions and avoid risky situations.

In addition, intelligent systems can intervene in an emergency and activate safety mechanisms such as automatic braking, stability control, collision warning, etc. These mechanisms can prevent or mitigate the impact of an accident and save lives.

Sensors

The sensors are devices that detect and measure different physical variables such as speed, distance, pressure, temperature, etc. Sensors can help improve the performance and maintenance of trucks by detecting possible failures or anomalies in the engine, tires, brakes, among other important parts. Thus, wear or breakdown of components can be prevented and accidents due to mechanical failures can be avoided.

In addition, they can help improve the safety of the driver and other road users, by detecting their level of fatigue, their state of health, their attention to driving, etc. Thus, the driver can be alerted or even replaced by an automatic system if it is detected that they are not in optimal conditions to drive.

Cameras

Cameras are devices that capture images of the truck’s surroundings and process them using artificial vision algorithms. Camera can help improve the driver’s visibility and expand their field of vision by showing them what is happening in blind spots, in the back of the truck, in dark or low-visibility areas, etc. Thus, the driver can have greater situational awareness and avoid collisions or accidents.

Additionally, cameras can help improve control and monitoring of the truck and its load by recording what happens during the journey and sending the images to a control center or mobile device. Thus, you can verify the status of the truck and its load, detect possible theft or sabotage, and identify infractions or incidents.

The technological advances we have analyzed can reduce truck traffic accidents and their negative effects on road safety and the environment. However, these advances are not enough on their own to ensure safe and efficient driving. It is also necessary to have adequate training and awareness of drivers, correct regulation and supervision of the road transport sector and greater cooperation between all the agents involved. Only in this way can we take advantage of the full potential of technology to improve mobility and quality of life.

What can be done to prevent and raise awareness about truck traffic accidents?

One of the best-known campaigns is the one carried out by the European Commission, called «Road Safety: No Need to Speed». This campaign focuses on excessive speed as one of the main risk factors for traffic accidents, especially for trucks, which have a greater mass and less room for maneuver. The campaign uses various media, such as posters, brochures, videos and social networks, to convey the message that reducing speed saves lives improves traffic flow and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

The objective of the campaign is to demonstrate the stability and precision of Volvo trucks. As well as their dynamic steering system, which facilitates control and maneuverability. Thes campaign has managed to capture the attention of millions of people around the world, and has generated greater awareness about the quality and safety of Volvo trucks.

There are many more initiatives that can be taken, both from the public and private sectors, to improve the situation. The most important thing is that we all become aware that road safety is a shared responsibility. And that it is up to us to adopt habits and attitudes that contribute to safer and more sustainable traffic.