I am disappointed to report that we have not even received a response from these organizations. There is no legitimate reason for the trucking industry to object to recorders. The trucking industry is looking for more flexibility in the hours of service regulations, but that step should not be taken without recorder verification. Recorder technology exists today. No invention is required.
Recorders are available now.
Truck drivers and motor carriers who abide by the rules have no reason to oppose recorders. Beyond the improvements designed specifically to combat fatigue, there are technological innovations that can be applied today to reduce the death toll brought about by large trucks. Collision avoidance systems already in use in large trucks, and systems that are under development, will provide measurable crash reduction benefits. This technology gives a truck driver audible and visual warnings of vehicles ahead and helps the driver maintain a safer following distance. Since installing this technology on 80 percent of its trucks, the company's accident costs have decreased by two-thirds.