Buckle up and prepare to arrive in the brave new world, because self-driving vehicles are almost here.

Vehicles capable of utilizing an array of computers, software and GPS systems can operate without a driver behind the wheel. Although a future where cars drive people seems like science fiction at first, companies such as Google have already spent tens of thousands of hours testing such technology.

But what about large commercial vehicles currently operated by human beings?

In Nevada, a new line of self-driving trucks is being tested. The high-tech trucks use ramped up versions of blind spot detection systems, cruise control and lane departure warning systems to drive exclusively on highways. Presently, the trucks are not completely autonomous, and drivers must remain behind the wheel to help the vehicles avoid situations they cannot handle, such as operating off highways.

If an event required the driver to take over steering, they would have several seconds to avoid a truck accident. In some ways, the idea sounds a lot like autopilot systems used in commercial aircrafts.

Can Computers Stop the ‘Human Error’ Aspect of Truck Accidents?

The most common causes of truck accidents are driver error, and finding a way to eliminate the room for error might help prevent some accidents. Fatigued and distracted driving are common types of truck driver negligence. Although the developers of the self-driving truck are quick to point out that computers are never fatigued or distracted, the vehicle is not completely autonomous yet.

However, this topic warrants future updates, not just for commercial cars, but passenger vehicles as well.

Our readers can learn more about Metier Law Firm’s experience in helping people injured in truck accidents by exploring our YouTube page.

Metier Law Firm – Injury Attorneys Serving Clients Nationwide