A recent NBC News investigation discussed why semi-trucks should be required to use side underride guards. The investigation claims 200 people are killed in side underride crashes every year. These crashes occur when motorists slam into the sides of trucks and are forced underneath. Modern safety features like airbags may be unable to save lives when these truck accidents happen. Motorists and passengers are often decapitated.
In the late 1990s, NHTSA issued a rule requiring semi-trucks to use rear underride guards, which can help prevent vehicles from being forced underneath the back of trailers. However, no such rule exists for requiring guards on both sides of these large vehicles.
We have known for decades that side underride and underride crashes are a major threat to public safety. Recent and highly publicized cases continue to happen. Last year, a motorist using Tesla’s autopilot was killed when his Tesla S Model S crashed under the side of a semi-truck.
Safety advocates and federal transportation agencies claim side guards could prevent these accidents from occurring. In 2014, NHTSA recommended that all new tractor trailers use side underride guards. A National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) assessment claimed these guards could reduce injuries and deaths. Proponents argue the trucking industry uses donations and lobbying to prevent lawmakers from asking NHTSA to require these devices.
There are also opponents to this issue. The Truck Trailer Manufacturers Association (TTMA) claims side guards are infeasible for several reasons. According to the TTMA, the guards would impose excessive costs on trucking companies. In addition, they claimed there would be technical challenges involved and that the guards would make semi-trucks less safe. Side guards are required on many trucks in Europe, but TTMA claims these only protect pedestrians and cyclists.
Do You Think Guards Can Prevent Side Underride Crashes?
Some organizations are attempting to overcome opposition to this issue by making inexpensive and effective side guards. Groups like Collision Safety Consulting are developing light guards that utilize polyester webbing.
Do you believe semi-trucks should require side guards, or are they infeasible or ineffective? Let us know your thoughts by connecting with the personal injury attorneys at Metier Law Firm, LLC on Facebook.