Truck Accidents Glossary: A

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ABS (Antilock Braking System): Computer, sensors and solenoid valves which together monitor wheel speed and modulate braking force if wheel lockup is sensed during braking. Helps the driver retain control of the vehicle during heavy braking on slippery roads.

AFV (Alternative Fueled Vehicle): Vehicle powered by a fuel other than gasoline or diesel.

Air Ride Suspension: Suspension which supports the load on air-filled rubber bags rather than steel springs. Compressed air is supplied by the same engine-driven air compressor and reservoir tanks which provide air to the air brake system.

ATC (Automatic Traction Control): Usually an optional feature based on ABS, it prevents spinning of the drive wheels under power on slippery surfaces by braking individual wheels and/or reducing engine throttle. Also called ASR, an acronym sometimes loosely translated from the German as anti-spin regulation.

ATV (All Terrain Vehicle): Vehicle designed for any type of terrain.

AVI (Automatic Vehicle Identification): System combining an on-board transponder with roadside receivers to automate identification of vehicles. Uses include electronic toll collection and stolen vehicle detection.

AVL (Automated Vehicle Location): Class of technologies designed to locate vehicles for fleet management purposes and for stolen vehicle recovery. Infrastructure can be land-based radio towers or satellites.

Axle: Structural component to which wheels, brakes and suspension are attached.

• Drive axles are those with powered wheels.
• Front axle is usually called the steer axle.
• Pusher axles are unpowered and go ahead of drive axles.
• Rear axles may be drive, tag or pusher types.
• Tag axles are unpowered and go behind drive axles.

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