Tractor Trailer Brakes Will Have Shorter Stopping Distances

It can take a semi truck up to 3 times as long to stop as it does a passenger vehicle. According to an amended federal rule, new tractor-trailers will be required to have brakes with better stopping distances. The rule mandates that new trucks have brakes installed with stopping distances that are 30 percent shorter than the previous requirement, which was established in 1995.

The new regulation is designed to help reduce the number of truck accidents across the country. In 2008, over 4,000 people were killed in large truck accidents nationally, not to mention the thousands of injuries. When a large truck and passenger vehicle collide, 98 percent of the deaths are passenger vehicle occupants. It has been estimated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that this new rule could prevent about 227 deaths and 300 serious injuries each year.

There have been many advances in brake technology. Once this federal rule takes effect in August 2011, most large trucks will have to have the capability to stop in no more than 250 feet from 60 mph when carrying a full load, compared to the current requirement of 355 feet, which is almost the length of a football field. Many passenger vehicles are able to stop within 120 to 130 feet.

This brake rule involves 3-axle rigs with gross weight of 59,600 pounds or less, which account for approximately 80 percent of all large trucks. Single-unit trucks won’t have to follow this standard, as these vehicles still have to stop within 310 feet when fully loaded and 335 feet when empty.

If you have been injured in a New York truck accident caused by negligence, you can and should hold the driver and trucking company accountable for your injuries. Contact an experienced New York truck accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Rappaport, Glass, Greene and Levine at 800.734.9445. We have offices conveniently located throughout New York and can help you recover the compensation you deserve.