automatic emergency braking mandate

New FMCSA Rule: Automatic Emergency Braking Mandate

Posted & filed under Carrier Connection, England Carrier Services.

The FMCSA is looking to finalize one of the most far-reaching regulations: an automatic emergency braking mandate (AEB) for all trucks exceeding 10,000 lbs.

Though this change can seem daunting, the FMCSA allows plenty of time to complete the transition.

Here’s everything you need to know about the FMCSA AEB mandate.

 

What Does the Mandate Require?

The mandate will require all trucks exceeding 10,000 lbs. to have an AEB installed.

AEBs fulfill two essential functions:

  • If you don’t hit the brakes when a collision is about to happen, the AEB system will automatically brake for you. This prevents accidents caused by distracted driving.
  • If you don’t hit the brakes hard enough to prevent a collision, the AEB system will add more stopping power to bring your truck to a stop.

To install an AEB, your truck must first have electronic stability control (ESC). An ESC is a series of sensors that enable an AEB system to function correctly.

 

When Do I Need to Complete the AEB Installment?

The FMCSA is allowing plenty of time for AEBs to be installed.

  • If the carrier installed ESC on their truck, they would have three years from the mandate announcement to install AEBs.
  • If the carrier does not have ESC, they are allowed four years from the mandate announcement to install ESC and AEBs.

Though carriers have a comfortable window to complete the installation, this effort should not be procrastinated. Rigorous inspections are likely to be conducted to ensure compliance with this new rule.

 

Why Is the FMCSA Requiring AEBs?

The FMCSA believes mandating AEBs will drastically improve the safety of all motorists. According to their data, they have a point:

  • Sixty thousand rear-end crashes involving heavy trucks occur annually, accounting for 7% of all fatal truck crashes.
  • The FMCSA has estimated that the mandate of AEBs will likely prevent more than 19,000 crashes, avert 9,000 injuries, and save 155 lives every year.

Many carriers may feel overwhelmed with the automatic emergency braking mandate, but their collective efforts will save hundreds of lives. With ample time and a good cause, you can do your part to keep the road safe.

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