The American Transportation Research Institute released findings from the first phase of a two-part research initiative aimed at assessing the use of navigation systems in large trucks. 

This first phase of the research, which analyzed survey data from over 800 drivers and carriers, identifies different systems and how they are used, as well as industry perceptions of navigation system effectiveness.
 
“This research is an important first step in understanding the role of navigation systems in large truck crashes. By identifying the types of systems used, how drivers use them, and the types of crashes that may result from their use, industry stakeholders and policy makers can begin to implement crash mitigation strategies and hopefully, reduce the overall occurrence of these events,” commented Kendra Hems, president of the New York State Motor Truck Association.
 
Furthermore, this study identifies the key priorities that navigation system providers should address in order to meet the needs of the trucking industry. 

ATRI’s phase 2 work will expand the research by collecting and comparing quantitative data from navigation systems while in use. This next step will attempt to identify the technical basis for navigation system failures and inadequacies from a truck operations perspective.
 
A copy of this report is available from ATRI at www.atri-online.org.