In an effort to streamline communication and address concerns within the trucking industry, David Sutula, the vehicle and roadside operations division chief at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), has extended a helping hand to carriers grappling with potential revisions to trailer underride guard regulations. Sutula, leveraging his extensive experience from over 16 years at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), offered to facilitate carriers' engagement with NHTSA regarding ongoing federal rulemaking processes.
Speaking at the 2024 Technology & Maintenance Council Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition, Sutula emphasized his commitment to advocating for carriers' interests and ensuring their voices are heard in the regulatory process. "If you are not confident about contacting NHTSA, contact me," Sutula reassured carriers, offering to address their comments, questions, and quandaries with counterparts at NHTSA.
Underride guards, designed to minimize fatalities and injuries by preventing vehicles from traveling under trailers during collisions, have become a focal point of debate within the industry. The potential introduction of side underride guards to trailers has stirred controversy, with carriers expressing concerns about costs, design complexities, and perceived benefits.
NHTSA's publication of an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking for side underride guards in April 2023 has sparked discussion and prompted carriers to voice apprehensions regarding the potential impact on freight capacity and operational logistics. Sutula stressed the importance of carriers providing comprehensive data on the costs and practical challenges associated with implementing side underride guards to inform NHTSA's decision-making process.
Kevin Grove, the Safety and Technology Policy Director at the American Trucking Associations (ATA), underscored the need for rigorous testing and engineering of guard designs, consideration of loading dock configurations, and implementation of regular inspection protocols to ensure compliance and effectiveness.
However, industry caution stems from initial NHTSA research findings indicating significant costs to the industry, potential fuel consumption increases due to added weight, underreported crashes, and limited demonstrated benefits of side underride guards.
NHTSA's specially appointed committee has commenced monthly meetings to deliberate on regulatory options, including potential enhancements to rear underride guard rules. While side underride guards have gained traction in some jurisdictions, industry stakeholders are advocating for a balanced approach that considers both safety imperatives and operational realities.
Reactions from Truck Drivers and Companies
Truck drivers and companies are expressing mixed reactions to the proposed regulations. While safety remains a top priority, concerns revolve around the practicality, feasibility, and financial implications of implementing side underride guards. Some drivers worry about potential impacts on freight capacity and operational efficiency, while companies evaluate the logistical challenges and costs associated with retrofitting their fleets. Amidst these concerns, stakeholders emphasize the importance of striking a balance between regulatory requirements and operational realities to ensure continued safety and efficiency in the trucking industry.
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