Speed Limiters Introduced for Large Trucks

The Senate reached a bipartisan agreement regarding the implementation of a new bill that would introduce speed limiters on new large trucks. The bill, titled The Cullum Owings Large Truck Safe Operating Speed Act of 2019, is in honor of a truck accident victim and is meant to reduce the risk of truck-related accidents in the United States. The bill will require the implementation of speed limiters on all new commercial trucks. Similarly, the bill will enforce the 65 mile-per-hour speed requirement on trucks with similar technology already installed. However, it is not required for older trucks to implement speed limiters.

Truck safety organizations are in support of the bill, including the Truckload Carriers Association, the Truck Safety Coalition, and the Trucking Alliance. Many safety organizations believe that implementing speed limiters will keep companies accountable. Organizations believe that trucking companies often encourage their drivers to speed to boost business. However, going too fast can lead to severe injuries and fatalities. Many are hopeful that Congress will pass the bill, leading to safer roads for all. However, others are doubtful. This is because speed limiter mandates have been delayed by the government more than 20 times in the last eight years.

The Frequency of Truck-Related Accidents

In 2016, an estimated 4,500 lives were lost in truck-related accidents. Tractor trailers compose only a small portion of vehicles on the road in the U.S. However, trucks and buses account for around 12 percent of all fatal crashes. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 17 percent of truck-related accidents involved speeding with at least one fatality. Similarly, the FMCSA conducted a truck crash causation study, where it discovered that speeding is a critical event in a truck accident. The organization states that a critical event is an action that makes a crash unavoidable. Trucks traveling too fast for their current conditions composed 29 percent of the study sample. This study proves that speed limiter technology can lead to safer roads.

Cherry Hill Truck Accident Lawyers at DiTomaso Law Advocate for Victims Injured in Truck Accidents

If you were the victim of a truck accident, please consider contacting a Cherry Hill truck accident lawyer at DiTomaso Law. Our lawyers help clients obtain the compensation they deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you are interested in speaking to one of our lawyers, contact us online or call us at 856-414-0010 for a free consultation. Located in Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients throughout southeastern Pennsylvania and South Jersey, including Mt. Holly and Camden County.