Trucking company fleets are increasing their use of semi-automatic and fully automatic transmissions, according to a recent study by Frost & Sullivan.
On average, fleet managers said that 47% of their trucks will be equipped with automated manual and fully automatic transmissions in 2015, up from 38% this year. The results were based on a survey of 101 fleet managers at for-hire and private U.S. fleets.
Sandeep Kar, global director of automotive and transportation research at Frost & Sullivan, said the industry’s “severe shortage of skilled drivers” is driving the growth.
“It is a fact that manual transmissions deliver higher fuel efficiency but only when operated correctly,” he said. “It’s easier for a fleet manager to put an unskilled driver in a truck with an automatic or semi-automatic transmission.”
I’m glad that trucking companies are taking steps to increase fuel economy – regardless of whether it’s to save money or help the environment – but there is no excuse for allowing inexperienced drivers to operate 80,000 pound vehicles on public roads putting average citizens at risk. Just because the technology makes it easier, it doesn’t make it safe or a good idea.
The Law Offices of William K. Berenson has successfully handled a variety of tractor-trailer collision cases. We have represented clients who were rear-ended by 18 wheelers stopped at a traffic light or waiting to turn and the truck driver refused to admit fault. We have also represented clients injured by large commercial vehicles in construction zones.
We are fully committed to helping the victims of accidents get all the medical care and compensation they need so they can rebuild their lives. Our law firm immediately investigates the collision, photographs the vehicles and takes measurements, and interviews the drivers and witnesses so that we can prove the negligence of the responsible parties.
Call us at 817-885-8000 or toll free at 1-800-885-8585 if you have been injured in type of truck collision. We will recover money for you and we advance all case expenses so you are never out of pocket any money for pursuing your 18 wheeler collision case.