Feds Act to Stop Cars From Being Wedged Under Truck Trailers. It Took 8 Years.
Updated: Aug 1, 2022
July 3, 2022 | nj.com
The federal agency that oversees traffic safety has announced stronger protections to make sure cars don’t get wedged under tractor-trailers — eight years after officials first promised to address the issue.
The new rules strengthen the standards for rear underride guards that stop cars from going under trailers. They also set up a federal advisory committee to study the need for side guards, and to develop a requirement for such protections.
NJ SEED: In 2021 5,600 people were killed in accidents involving big rucks. Safety advocates claim that the new rule falls far sort of what is needed to provide significant protections. Many assert that the rule does not even go as far as current practices. It is, however, a step in the right direction.