Semi-truck platooning, also known as “road trains” or “convoy driving,” is a method of trucking in which multiple trucks are connected and driven in close proximity to each other.
In a platoon, one truck is typically controlled by a human driver, while the others are controlled by autonomous or semi-autonomous systems.
This approach has been touted as a way to improve fuel efficiency, reduce traffic congestion, and increase safety on the roads.
However, there are also concerns about the safety of platooning, particularly in the event of sudden braking or other unexpected events.
In this article, we will explore what semi-truck platooning is, how it works, and whether it is safe for use on public roads.
What is Semi-Truck Platooning?
Platooning is a technology that allows big rig trucks to travel in a closely spaced convoy, using advanced sensors and communication systems to coordinate their movements and maintain a safe distance from one another.
The idea is that by traveling in a closely spaced group, the trucks can save fuel, reduce emissions, and increase overall efficiency. However, there are concerns about the safety of platooning, as it requires the trucks to maintain a very close distance from one another and may not be able to respond quickly to unexpected obstacles or changes in traffic.
Some experts also worry that platooning could increase the risk of accidents if the technology fails or if drivers are not properly trained to use it. Overall, the safety of platooning is still being evaluated, and it is not yet widely used in the trucking industry.
What Are the Benefits of Truck Platooning
There are several potential benefits to truck platooning, including improved fuel efficiency, reduced traffic congestion, and increased safety on the roads.
Because the trucks in a platoon are able to maintain a consistent distance from each other and coordinate their movements, they can drive more efficiently than individual trucks.
This can lead to savings on fuel costs and reduced emissions. Additionally, because platoons take up less space on the road than individual trucks, they can help to reduce traffic congestion.
Finally, because the trucks in a platoon are able to respond quickly to changes in road conditions and traffic, they may be less likely to be involved in accidents. This can help to improve safety on the roads for all users.
What Are the Potential Hazards That Truck Platooning Could Pose for Ordinary Drivers?
The potential hazards that this approach poses for ordinary drivers include increased difficulty in passing the platoon, increased risk of accidents if the platoon has to brake suddenly, and the potential for confusion if the platoon is not clearly marked.
Brian Panish, a truck accident lawyer in California argues that “Accidents caused by large trucks are overwhelming and stressful at best, traumatic and deadly at worst”.
One of the main safety concerns surrounding platooning is the potential for accidents if the platoon has to brake suddenly.
Because the trucks in a platoon are driving in close proximity to each other, they may not have enough time to react if the lead truck has to brake suddenly.
This could result in a collision within the platoon, or with other vehicles on the road.
Also, the close proximity of the trucks in a platoon may cause additional wind resistance, which could make it more difficult for other vehicles to pass the platoon safely.
Additionally, there is a risk that the trucks in a platoon may not be able to react quickly enough to avoid obstacles or hazards in the road, such as debris or animals.
Finally, there is a concern that the use of autonomous or semi-autonomous systems in truck platooning could lead to a loss of control over the platoon if the systems fail or are hacked. This could result in a catastrophic accident.