Will New Truck Safety Laws Affect Drivers in Jackson, Mississippi?
The Stop Underrides Act of 2017, a bipartisan bill making its way through Congress, aims to reduce fatalities in truck accidents by mandating the installation of side underride guards on all commercial trucks. Underride crashes, where a smaller vehicle slides under a truck, often result in severe injuries or fatalities. In Mississippi and across the U.S., these types of accidents are a significant concern, with 295 car occupants killed in side underride crashes and 238 in rear underride crashes in 2016 alone, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Understanding the Proposed Changes
The Stop Underrides Act seeks to update regulations that have not been significantly revised since 1998, when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) established rear underride guard requirements. The proposed bill mandates that side and rear underride guards be able to withstand collisions from cars traveling at 35 mph. The NHTSA has been working on a similar update since 2015, intending to align U.S. standards with the stricter Canadian regulations. The agency is currently awaiting research results from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute to further guide its regulatory approach.
If passed, this bill could have significant implications for the trucking industry and the safety of drivers on the road. While the truck accident attorneys would likely welcome these changes as a means to reduce fatal accidents, there are also concerns about the practical impact on the trucking industry.
Challenges Facing the Trucking Industry
One of the primary concerns regarding the proposed side underride guards is their weight. Each guard weighs approximately 800 pounds, which could negatively impact gas mileage and reduce the amount of freight that trucks can carry. The trucking industry is also worried about the costs associated with installing, replacing, and inspecting these guards, which could further strain resources.
Despite these concerns, some truck manufacturers are already taking proactive steps to strengthen their underride guards, as recognized by the IIHS. This move indicates a growing awareness within the industry of the importance of safety innovations, even as debates over the financial implications continue.
Legal Implications for Truck Accident Victims
For victims of truck accidents, the implementation of stricter underride guard regulations could be a lifesaving change. These guards can significantly reduce the severity of accidents by preventing smaller vehicles from sliding under trucks during collisions. Victims and their families may have legal grounds to seek compensation if an accident occurs due to inadequate safety measures. Consulting with personal injury attorneys can provide victims with the necessary legal guidance to pursue such claims.
Truck accidents often involve complex legal issues, including determining liability and navigating federal and state regulations. This is where experienced attorneys can play a crucial role. They can help victims gather evidence, understand their legal rights, and build a strong case for compensation. In cases where a truck’s safety equipment fails to meet the required standards, legal action may be necessary to hold the responsible parties accountable.
The Future of Truck Safety
As the Stop Underrides Act of 2017 progresses through Congress, the trucking industry, safety advocates, and legal professionals are all keeping a close eye on its potential impact. While the bill’s goal is to enhance safety and reduce fatalities, it also brings to light the ongoing debate between safety improvements and their economic implications.
For residents of Jackson, Mississippi, and across the country, the passage of this bill could lead to safer roads and fewer fatal truck accidents. However, it also underscores the importance of understanding the legal landscape surrounding truck accidents and the role that attorneys play in advocating for victims’ rights.
In conclusion, the Stop Underrides Act of 2017 represents a critical step towards improving road safety, but it also presents challenges that need to be carefully considered. Whether the bill passes or not, staying informed about these developments and seeking legal advice from truck accident attorneys or personal injury attorneys can help ensure that victims of truck accidents receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
