New Brunswick Truck Accident Lawyers: Mounted Cameras
A nationwide move to have police officers use body cameras is resulting in a movement by the trucking industry to add mounted cameras to semi-trucks. Just as police become more accountable for conduct, mounted cameras may be able to reduce truck accidents by making truck drivers more accountable.
The Effectiveness of Mounted Cameras
Some believe that existing Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations governing the trucking industry are enough. Already in place are strict hours-of-service rules, electronic logbooks for monitoring compliance, and daily maintenance inspections. To the opponents of mounted cameras, adding another layer of restrictions seems excessive.
However, many trucking companies have voluntarily moved forward with cameras in and on trucks. Starting in 2015, some of the larger commercial trucking outfits have added dual-lens cameras to nearly 400,000 semi-trucks in the nation. This has brought startling results. One trucking company headquartered in New Jersey claims to have seen a 50 percent reduction in commercial truck accidents. In addition, the carrier’s insurance rates have been reduced by 30 percent.
To date, the evidence seems to support the claim that truck accidents are reduced by adding the dual-lens cameras to trucks. However, there are some complications.
Dual-lens Truck Mounted Cameras: An Invasion of Privacy?
The dual-lens mounted camera provides the ability to record both the front and the interior cabin of the truck. Given that the cabin of the truck functions as both an office and living space, privacy is understandably limited with the inclusion of a camera.
To overcome this issue, trucking companies using the dual-lens cameras are offering their drivers a monthly bonus for safe operation. Not only are big rig accidents reduced by the mounted cameras, when a truck accident occurs, it is easier for trucking companies to prove driver compliance with the FMCSA rules.
New Brunswick Truck Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr Help Injured Parties Pursue Compensation
If you have been injured in a commercial truck accident in New Jersey, our New Brunswick truck accident lawyers are here to help. You may be entitled to compensation for damages and pain and suffering caused by another’s negligence. Contact the Law Offices of Harold J. Gerr for help.
From our conveniently located New Jersey offices, we serve clients throughout Bound Brook, Colonia, East Brunswick, Edison, Fords, Highland Park, Iselin, Metuchen, Middlesex, Milltown, New Brunswick, North Brunswick, Old Bridge, Perth Amboy, Piscataway, Sayreville, Somerset, South Brunswick, South Plainfield, South River, Spotswood, and Woodbridge, New Jersey. Contact us now using our online form or call 732-537-8570 to discuss your case.
