Latest News

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued a press release about the proposal of automatic emergency braking requirements on new vehicles. According to the NHTSA, this technology could significantly reduce fatalities and injuries on roadways throughout the U.S. NHTSA data projects that if the proposed rule is finalized, it would save at least 360 lives a year and reduce injuries by at least 24,000 annually.  

What Are Automatic Emergency Braking Systems 

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) systems work by warning a driver about the need to apply brakes or applying the brakes independently of the driver. AEB systems are designed to prevent or mitigate rear-end type crashes. They have sensors that detect hazards, other cars and even pedestrians in the roadway. Typically, the AEB systems will warn the driver that they need to apply brakes, and in some cases, apply the brakes without the driver.  

AEB systems and other similar types of automotive technology work to detect potential crashes. These types of technology can help to mitigate and even prevent some crashes. If a driver is distracted or doesn’t apply the brakes in time, the AEB system will apply the vehicle’s brakes. The systems may even be able to apply the brakes with more force than a driver.  

Stopping Vehicles Before Crashes Happen  

This rule proposal is part of the response to a provision in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Lawmakers are hoping to require all vehicles to be able to stop and avoid contact with a vehicle in front of them up to 62 miles per hour. The proposal also includes a requirement that AEB systems are able to recognize and avoid pedestrians at night.  If the proposed rule is finalized, nearly all U.S. light vehicles (cars, SUVs, light trucks and vans with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less) will be required to have AEB technology three years after the publication of the final rule.  

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident caused by a dangerous or distracted driver in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact the skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.