Truck driving down the road

NHTSA Issues New Rule Mandating Rear Truck Underride Guards

After an increase in the number of deadly truck accidents nationwide, the National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a new rule concerning truck underride guards. While the new standard was published in the Federal Register on July 15th, it won’t go into effect until January 11th, 2023.

What Are Underride Truck Accidents?

Underride truck accidents, which occur when a smaller vehicle slides under a large truck, are one of the deadliest types of vehicle crashes. In fact, it is estimated that approximately 80-90 percent of all underride truck accidents prove fatal. Generally moving at high speeds, cars that collide with the back and subsequently underride of the truck, often end up tearing off their cab. Understandably, this often results in severe, catastrophic injuries, or death.

The NHTSA’s New Rule

Rear underride guards are so important because they reduce the risk of fatalities by preventing the car or smaller vehicle from sliding underneath the truck should it collide with the back of one. This prevents the car’s cab from being destroyed and saves lives. Under the NHTSA’s new rule, underride guards must be able to withstand impact when hit by a compact or subcompact passenger vehicle traveling at speeds of up to 35 mph. 

While the new rule has been praised by many for decreasing the risk of severe injury or death, many safety advocates feel that the new rule is not more severe. Some advocates feel that the rule should also require side underride guards on larger semi-trucks. While the NHTSA is still considering side underride guards (those on the sides of the truck), it is also weighing benefits, cost, and feasibility. 

The Pervasiveness of Underride Truck Accidents

Since the NHTSA does not keep track of the number exact number of accidents that are rear underride truck accidents, according to the group, Stop Underrides, that number is about 600 people each year. 

No matter what that exact number is, there is no denying that underride truck accidents are often severe and devastating. Those who have been injured in an underride truck accident should be compensated for their horrific injuries and left to focus on healing and getting their lives back. Unfortunately, many insurance companies will try to absolve themselves of responsibility. This is why an experienced personal injury attorney can greatly help. 

The Attorneys at Ceja Law Firm Help Those in Houston Who Have Been Injured in an Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to the recklessness or negligence of another, it’s vital that you understand to what you are entitled under the law. With this information under your belt, you can make the important decisions regarding how you want to move forward. That’s why it’s in your best interest to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced Texas personal injury attorney.

At Ceja Law Firm PLLC, we understand the impact that an accident can have on many parts of your life and the importance of properly dealing with such negligence or recklessness. That’s why we will work to get you the compensation that you deserve. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!