Welcome to our countdown of the 10 Deadliest American CabOver Trucks. These trucks were for a long time very common on the American highways, but eventually disappeared. After watching this list, you will probably agree with these trucks not driving our highways any longer.
Number 10 on our list is the Freightliner FLB, a compact powerhouse designed for tight urban spaces. While ideal for navigating narrow streets and small loading docks, its cab-over-engine design significantly limited visibility. The driver’s high and forward position created dangerous blind spots at the front corners and sides, areas where pedestrians and smaller vehicles could easily vanish from view.
Additionally, the FLB’s cramped cabin contributed to driver fatigue, reducing alertness and slowing reaction times—critical factors in busy city traffic. The frequent braking required in urban settings also accelerated wear on its braking system, increasing the risk of failures. These factors combined to make the FLB a challenging vehicle to operate safely in populated areas.
Number 9 is the International 9800, a stalwart of long-haul trucking that often lagged behind in adopting newer safety technologies. Its older design came without the benefits of advancements like electronic stability control or advanced anti-lock braking systems, which are crucial for maintaining control during high-speed maneuvers or adverse weather conditions.
The absence of these modern safety features made the 9800 more prone to accidents, particularly in emergency situations where rapid response is vital. Additionally, its traditional cab design did little to enhance driver visibility, which is essential for spotting hazards on the open highway. These factors combined rendered the International 9800 a risky choice in the fast-evolving trucking landscape.
Number 8 brings us to the GMC Astro 95, a favorite from the 70s and 80s known for its robust engine and durable design. However, as this model aged, it began to show its vulnerabilities, particularly with its mechanical systems. The steering components, vital for safe maneuvering, often wore down, leading to decreased precision. This was especially risky on highways where swift and accurate steering is crucial.
Additionally, the Astro 95's braking system, designed for the technology of its time, did not age well. These brakes required frequent maintenance to perform reliably, a necessity that could easily be neglected given the truck’s older status. In fast-moving traffic, any delay in brake response could be disastrous, elevating the Astro 95's risk factor significantly.
Number 7 features the Ford CL-9000, a familiar sight on American highways during its heyday. This truck was equipped with a complex electrical system and air brakes, which became problematic as the model aged. The electrical system, intricate and prone to faults, could lead to unexpected system failures, affecting everything from lighting to critical engine functions.
Moreover, the air brakes on the Ford CL-9000 were known for reliability issues, potentially leading to increased stopping distances or complete brake failure under stress. These two significant flaws made the CL-9000 a challenging vehicle to operate safely, particularly in emergency situations where quick vehicle responses are crucial.
Ranking at number 6, the Kenworth K100 is known for its iconic, aerodynamic design which marked a significant innovation in truck manufacturing. However, the focus on aesthetics and aerodynamics came at the cost of driver comfort. The cabin’s compact and less ergonomic design led to driver fatigue, a serious concern for vehicles intended for long hauls.
This fatigue could result in decreased alertness and slower reaction times, increasing the likelihood of accidents during extended trips. Additionally, the demanding nature of operating such a large vehicle without modern ergonomic supports put extra strain on drivers, compounding the potential for critical errors on the road.
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