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2027 is the year that some experts believe self-driving semi-trucks will get on the highways, although a few road tests are already underway. This will shake up the trucking industry!

It may affect you, whether you’re a seasoned truck driver or new to trucking. What are self-driving trucks? Are they a good idea? Will they replace human truck drivers?

In this post, we discuss everything you should know about self-driving semi-trucks to help you plan and avoid any disruption to your livelihood.

What Are Self-driving Semi-trucks?

Self-driving or automated semi-trucks are eighteen-wheelers capable of traveling independently, i.e., without input from human drivers. They can go anywhere traditional trucks go and do almost everything human drivers do.

These trucks depend on self-driving technology, including sensors, actuators, machine learning systems, and powerful processors to navigate. They create and keep a clear map of their environment using several sensors and cameras strategically placed in various parts of the vehicle.

Some of these include:

• Radar sensors scan the positions of any vehicles nearby.
• Light detection and ranging (Lidar) sensors identify lane markings, detect road edges, and measure distances.
• Video cameras look for pedestrians, track other vehicles, read road signs, and detect traffic lights.
• Ultrasonic sensors in the truck’s wheels detect other vehicles when parking.

Once the sensors receive relevant input, they send it to sophisticated software for processing. The software then plots a path and instructs the car’s actuators to control steering, acceleration, and braking.

Predictive modeling, hard-coded rules, obstacle recognition, and avoidance algorithms help the software navigate obstacles and obey all traffic rules.

At the moment, very few semi-trucks, which are still in their testing phase, can operate entirely on their own. Most require human drivers to act as safety drivers and take control if anything goes wrong. But this is changing fast as autonomous technology continues to improve.

Key car manufacturers in the autonomous trucking industry are also channeling more resources to perfect self-driving technology and eliminate the need for drivers. So far, there are a few types (about 6) of self-driving trucks, each with a different driving automation capacity.

Types of Self-driving Trucks

Driverless trucks are categorized according to their levels of automation or how much human input the vehicles require to operate on public roads. The less human involvement the autonomous vehicle needs to operate, the higher the automation and the category.

Some common levels of autonomous driving include the below.

Level 0: No Automation

Such a vehicle requires manual driving. A human driver must be behind the wheel to perform most driving tasks like steering and acceleration. There could be a few automated truck features, such as automatic emergency braking, blind spot, and lane departure warning. But they are limited to offering warnings and momentary assistance.

Also, the driver has to supervise these features constantly to maintain safety. Most trucks currently fall under this category.

Level 1: Driver Assistance

Level 1 semi-trucks have the most basic form of automation. They come with at least one automated driving system to support the driver’s efforts. It could be a brake or /acceleration driver support system, lane centering, or adaptive cruise speed monitoring control. But not all three.

Level 2: Partial Automation

For level 2 trucks, there is an advanced driving assist system (ADAS) with lane centering and adaptive cruise control. The system provides steering and acceleration plus brake support to the driver. However, the driver still needs to remain alert and monitor all driving operations behind the wheel.

Level 3: Conditional Automation

Autonomous semi-trucks at level 3 have sophisticated self-driving features like environmental detection capabilities. The trucks can perform nearly all the driving tasks but under limited conditions. These conditions must all be met for the automated driving systems to work.

A human driver must also be present to take over upon request by the Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems or during an emergency.

Level 4: High Automation

Level 4 autonomous semi-trucks can perform all driving operations. This includes stopping in case of a system failure or emergency. They don’t require truck drivers.

These autonomous vehicles also don’t need pedals or a steering wheel. Their self-driving autonomous system can take the truck from one point to another following preprogrammed route set via geofencing.

Level 5: Full Automation

Full driving automation for level 5 autonomous trucks lets the vehicle travel to any place through all conditions. It doesn’t require any human interaction or geofencing. Such a system only needs the final destination details, and it takes care of all driving tasks.

Are Driverless Trucks A Good Idea?

Like most opinions, the answer to whether self-driving trucks are a good idea depends on an individual’s perspective. Some people believe autonomous trucks are a good idea for the same reasons others think they are not.

For example, big players in self-driving truck companies and fleet managers support autonomous trucks because they’ll revolutionize the trucking industry by eliminating driver shortages. At the same time, most truck drivers see automated trucks as a threat because they might lose their jobs.

We’ve outlined some of the advantages and disadvantages of self-driving trucks below. So you can weigh and judge for yourself whether they’re a good idea or not.

Advantages Of Autonomous Trucks

Improved Efficiency

With advanced technology comes increased efficiency, and autonomous trucking technology is no exception.

A self-driving semi maximizes performance in terms of the time taken to deliver freight and fuel efficiency. It can choose the most effective route to deliver freight in the shortest time possible. Also, shorter transportation time may push companies to expand their operations. More distribution centers with an increased variety of products can emerge because of this.

Increased Safety

Autonomous trucks will enhance road safety by eliminating human error – one of the most common causes of truck accidents. All the high-tech sensors and software we mentioned earlier work jointly to promote excellent driving and minimize the chances of road accidents.

Minimum to No Breaks

Unlike a human driver, a self-driving truck can operate round-the-clock, including off-peak hours, without any breaks. This means that it can transport more loads faster than human truck drivers and whenever the need arises.

Fleet managers also don’t have to stress about drivers complying with the strict logging requirements by the Department of Transportation.

Reduced Operating Costs

As a result of all the benefits above, automated trucks lower operating costs. Specifically, faster freight delivery and fuel efficiency reduce fuel expenses. While increased safety translates to substantial savings in insurance claims, settlements, and accident repairs. Having no drivers also lowers labor costs for trucking companies.

Disadvantages Of Autonomous Trucks

System Failures

Picture a fully loaded automated vehicle, say a semi-truck at about 80,000 pounds. It’s taking instructions from its high-tech system, cruising the highways. Then, the system fails. What would happen?

Critics of autonomous trucking argue that accidents ensuing from driverless trucks are more damaging than those with truck drivers for one main reason: They lack the human connection and live-saving instincts humans have.

In this scenario, if a human driver were behind the wheel, they could make eye contact with other drivers, send subtle cues, and make split-second judgment calls to prevent the accident or minimize its impact. A self-driving truck cannot do the same.

Security Threats

Self-driving technology is susceptible to cyber criminals, including hackers. Malicious attacks can bring trucking operations to a halt, affecting the entire supply chain and leading to losses.

Weather Conditions

Unpredictable weather poses a significant challenge to most self-driving vehicles. Can the sensors still identify lane markings if they’re obscured by snow?

Automotive engineers are working hard to ensure autonomous cars can operate under all weather conditions. But the uncertainty of weather and other natural phenomenon may pose new challenges with time.

Government Regulation and Legal Liability

What happens when one autonomous semi-truck collides with another? Who will be accountable or liable for the accident? What if the truck collided with a non-self-driving vehicle?

The regulatory process for self-driving cars shifted from federal control to state-by-state mandate. However, most states are yet to polish their autonomous vehicle laws to clarify such matters. Things are likely to change over time, but until then, government regulation on the operation of autonomous trucks remains a challenge.

Overreliance On Big Tech

Automated trucks will require periodic software updates to operate optimally. Because of this, big tech companies currently working to make driving automation a reality, like Torc Robotics, might take control of the transportation industry. If this happens, fleet managers may lose control of their fleet management costs.

Will Self-driving Semi-trucks Replace Human Drivers?

The truth is that trucking jobs, as we know them, will change significantly. And yes, a good number of truck drivers will lose their jobs. But self-driving semi-trucks will only displace as opposed to completely replacing human drivers.

Research estimates that automated trucks may displace more than 2 million truck drivers in the United States and Europe. The demand for new drivers will also reduce by about 70% as most current professional trucking jobs will become redundant.

New opportunities are likely to emerge. Following the trends from the ongoing driverless testing pilot programs, truck drivers may be required to take on a supervisory role. That is, supervising the truck and cargo and ensuring everything goes smoothly. They may also need to conduct emergency repairs from time to time.

Also, short-distance truck drivers will keep their jobs longer to help the trucks navigate congested urban areas. However, if you work long-haul routes, you will have to adjust since the trucks are made to automate highway driving. You can switch to short-distance trucking to continue driving. This can mean reduced working hours which will translate into a pay cut.

Alternatively, you can acquire more maintenance and supervisory skills. Or take new training and explore new roles like being an automated truck technician.

The good news is we still have a few years before driverless trucks become the norm on our highways. So, you’ll have enough time to adjust and prepare for the change.

How Soon Will Large-Scale Use Of Driverless Trucks Become A Reality?

As noted before, we might start seeing a good number of self-driving trucks on our highways as soon as 2027. But the full transition into autonomous trucking will occur gradually throughout the next decade.

The automated trucks will be made available for use in four distinct phases, using a fleet of self-driving trucks connected through wireless technology:

• Phase one: A fleet of semi-trucks follows a lead truck closely on the highway. Each truck will have a human driver to take control of the wheel on some, mostly smaller, roads and allow the AI program to take over driving on freeways. This technique is commonly referred to as platooning.
• Phase two: In this phase, only the lead truck will have a human driver, as a convoy of automated trucks follows closely behind. It may become a reality by 2025.
• Phase three: For the third phase, the lead truck will be completely self-driving on the highway. Meaning the entire convoy will be autonomous. However, a human driver might have to be present in the lead truck to help navigate loading docks and small roads.
• Phase four: The final phase will see 100% automated trucks on the highways at scale. There will be no human driver in any of the trucks. This may become a reality by early 2030.

What’s Next?

If you’re a truck driver, you may be required to adapt and take on a more passive but crucial role similar to pilots in the aviation industry.

New opportunities you can take advantage of will also emerge as automation continues to infiltrate the trucking industry.

Chances are, with time, other tasks like loading and unloading will get automated too. Overall, the transportation industry is staring at a completely digitized 24/7 supply chain, and hopefully, you are ready to make it work for you!

To stay updated with the latest news on self-driving AI and autonomous trucking, read our blog!

Hey there, small business owners in the trucking industry! Are you running a fleet of commercial trucks or considering venturing into this dynamic field? In that case, one crucial aspect you need to familiarize yourself with is commercial truck insurance.

It’s no secret that the road can be unpredictable, and protecting your business from potential risks and liabilities is essential.

Let’s delve into the world of trucking insurance, unravel its complexities, and provide you with essential insights to make informed decisions.

So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to navigate the insurance landscape with confidence and peace of mind!

Commercial Truck Insurance For Small Business: All You Need To Know

Here’s everything you need to know when you purchase commercial truck insurance.

Types Of Commercial Truck Insurance

Understanding the types of commercial truck coverage is crucial for small businesses in the trucking industry. Each type of coverage addresses specific risks and liabilities, allowing you to tailor your personal auto insurance policies to the unique needs of your business.

By selecting the appropriate insurance coverage, you can protect your assets, comply with legal requirements, and confidently operate your small trucking business.

Here are the most common types of small business commercial vehicle insurance out there.

Primary Liability Insurance

Primary liability insurance is a legal requirement for all commercial trucks operating on public roads. It covers bodily injury and property damage caused to others in an accident where the insured truck is at fault. This insurance ensures victims receive compensation for their injuries or property damage, protecting your business from lawsuits.

Physical Damage Coverage

Physical damage coverage protects the insured commercial truck itself. It includes collision coverage, which covers damages from collisions with other vehicles or objects.

It also covers damages from non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, fire, or natural disasters. Physical damage coverage is critical if your truck has significant value or if you have financing or leasing obligations.

Cargo Insurance

Cargo insurance protects the goods or freight being transported by your commercial truck. It covers damage or loss of cargo due to accidents, theft, or other covered perils.

Cargo insurance is crucial for trucking businesses that transport valuable or sensitive cargo, providing peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen incidents.

Non-Trucking Liability Insurance

Non-trucking liability insurance, or bobtail insurance, covers liability when the truck is operated for non-business purposes, such as when the semi-truck driver is off-duty or using the truck for personal use. This insurance fills the coverage gap that may exist when the primary liability insurance does not apply outside of business-related activities.

Motor Truck General Liability Insurance

Motor truck general liability insurance offers coverage beyond primary liability insurance. It covers bodily injury or property damage caused by non-trucking-related activities, such as when the driver is at a loading dock or engaged in other non-driving operations. This insurance protects your business from potential liability claims during trucking operations.

Trailer Interchange Insurance

Trailer interchange insurance covers damage or loss to non-owned trailers that a trucking company uses under a trailer interchange agreement.

This insurance is essential for rental reimbursement and when trucking companies interchange trailers with other companies or use trailers owned by others, ensuring that damages to the trailers are covered under your commercial truck insurance policy.

Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance provides additional liability coverage that extends beyond the limits of your primary liability insurance. It offers extra protection against high-cost claims and lawsuits.

Umbrella insurance can benefit trucking businesses that want to increase their liability coverage limits and protect their assets in a catastrophic event.

What To Look For In Commercial Truck Insurance

When choosing the best commercial truck insurance for commercial vehicles, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you have the right coverage that meets your specific needs. Here are some key aspects to look for when evaluating commercial trucking insurance options:

Customizable Policies

Every trucking business is unique, and your insurance needs may vary depending on the type of cargo you transport, the distance you travel, and other specific factors. Look for insurance providers that offer customizable policies, allowing you to tailor the coverage to your business requirements. This ensures you only pay for the coverage you need without unnecessary extras.

Adequate Coverage Limits

Assess the coverage limits offered by the insurance policy. It’s crucial to have adequate coverage limits that align with your business’s potential risks and liabilities. Consider factors such as the value of your trucks, the nature of the cargo you transport, and the potential costs of accidents or lawsuits. Adequate coverage limits provide the financial protection you need in case of unforeseen events.

Deductibles And Premiums

Evaluate the deductibles and premiums associated with the insurance policy. Deductibles are the amount you’re responsible for paying out of pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in. At the same time, premiums are the recurring payments you make for the policy. Consider your budget and financial capabilities to choose deductibles and premiums that are reasonable and affordable for your small business.

Claims Process And Customer Support

Look for an insurance provider with a straightforward and efficient claims process. In the event of an accident or loss, a responsive and supportive claims department can make a significant difference in quickly resolving issues and getting your business back on track. Read reviews and seek recommendations to gauge the quality of customer support the insurance company provides.

Insurance Company Reputation

Research the reputation and financial stability of the commercial truck insurance company you are considering. Look for insurance providers with a solid track record, strong financial ratings, and a history of providing reliable coverage and excellent customer service. Reputable commercial truck insurance providers will give you confidence that they’ll be there when you need them most.

Additional Services And Resources

Consider any additional services or resources offered by the insurance provider. Some companies provide risk management tools, safety training programs, or access to industry-specific expertise. These value-added services can help you enhance the safety of your operations, mitigate risks, and improve overall business performance.

Insuring Vs. Financing Your Semi-Truck

When it comes to buying a semi-truck for businesses, you’ll likely face the decision of whether to insure or finance your vehicle.

Both options have their merits, and understanding the differences can help you make an informed decision. Let’s explore the considerations when it comes to insuring versus financing your semi-truck:

Insuring Your Semi-Truck

Insuring your semi-truck is critical in protecting your investment and managing potential risks. Commercial truck insurance companies offer coverage for liability, physical damage, motor truck cargo, and more.

Insuring your semi-truck protects your business from the financial implications of accidents, theft, damage, or other unforeseen events. Commercial auto insurance acts as a safety net, helping you recover financially and continue operations in the face of adversity.

It provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re adequately protected and can focus on your business without worrying about the potential financial burden of incidents on the road.

Financing Your semi-truck

Financing your semi-truck involves obtaining a loan or lease to acquire the vehicle. This option allows you to spread the cost of the truck over a predetermined period, making it more affordable in the short term.

Financing can be advantageous, especially if you don’t have the total funds upfront or prefer to allocate your capital to other aspects of your business.

By financing, you can secure a reliable and efficient semi-truck without depleting your cash reserves, enabling you to preserve working capital for operational needs or other investments.

However, it’s essential to consider the terms and interest rates associated with the financing option to ensure it aligns with your budget and financial goals.

Making The Right Choice

The decision between insuring and financing your semi-truck ultimately depends on your specific circumstances and priorities. Assessing your business’s financial position, risk tolerance, and long-term goals is crucial.

If you have the financial capacity, insuring your semi-truck is a non-negotiable aspect of responsible business ownership. Insurance protects your investment, business reputation, and ability to bounce back from potential setbacks.

On the other hand, if you require additional funds to acquire a semi-truck and financing aligns with your financial strategy, securing a loan or lease can be a viable option. You’ll need to consider commercial truck insurance costs.

Most businesses choose a combination of both insurance and financing.

By insuring your semi-truck and financing its purchase, you can simultaneously enjoy the benefits of protection and affordability. This approach allows you to balance the need for insurance coverage with the financial flexibility provided by financing arrangements.

Ultimately, whether you choose to insure, finance, or pursue a combination of both for your semi-truck, consulting with professionals in the insurance and financing sectors is crucial.

Final Thoughts

Remember, insurance is not just a requirement like your commercial driver’s license, it’s an investment in the longevity and stability of your business.

Take the time to research and compare different insurance options, consult with professionals in the industry if needed, and choose a policy that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.

With the right commercial truck coverage, you can focus on growing your business while knowing you’re protected against potential challenges and setbacks.

If you’re looking to insure your semi-truck, reach out to Mission Financial Services today.