In urban areas, the danger posed by large trucks to vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists is a growing concern. One effective measure to mitigate this risk is the implementation of truck side guards. This blog post explores the significance of truck side guards, the legislative push for their adoption, and real-world examples of their impact. We’ll also link to various authoritative articles that discuss these developments in detail.
Legislative Push for Truck Side Guards
The bipartisan Stop Underrides Act of 2017, introduced by Senators Marco Rubio and Kirsten Gillibrand, aims to mandate the use of underride guards on trucks to reduce fatalities. This legislation is supported by key safety organizations, including the National Safety Council.
Read more about this legislative effort in Fleet Management PW’s Spring 2018 issue.
Why Truck Side Guards Are Crucial
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Volpe Center, nearly half of bicyclists and more than a quarter of pedestrians killed by large trucks first impact the side of the truck. Side guards can prevent these vulnerable road users from being swept underneath, thereby reducing fatal injuries.
For a detailed discussion on the importance of side guards, check out Modern WorkTruck Solutions’ article. Discover effective strategies for boosting pedestrian safety with truck side guards in our latest article here.
Success Stories and Global Adoption
Countries like the United Kingdom have mandated side guards for decades, resulting in significant reductions in fatalities. For example, cyclist fatalities dropped by 61% and pedestrian fatalities by 20% after the UK required side guards in 1983.
Philadelphia has also seen the benefits of side guards, with recent tragedies prompting a push for their widespread adoption. The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia is a strong advocate for these safety measures.
Learn more about these initiatives in Waste Today’s online article.
Dur-A-Guard: Leading the Way in Side Guard Solutions
Dur-A-Guard provides custom-fit side guards for various truck types, ensuring comprehensive protection. Their products are made from durable materials and are designed for easy installation and maintenance. Dur-A-Guard has been a part of significant safety improvements in cities like New York, where they helped retrofit the fleet of Action Carting Environmental Services to comply with Vision Zero regulations.
Dur-A-Guard is at the forefront of enhancing road safety with their innovative and reliable truck side guards. Their dedication to quality and customization ensures that their side guards provide comprehensive protection across a variety of truck types, making roads safer for everyone.
Custom-Fit Solutions for All Truck Types
Dur-A-Guard understands that no two fleets are the same. That’s why they offer custom-fit side guards tailored to accommodate different makes, models, and configurations of trucks. Whether you operate box trucks, dump trucks, or sanitation vehicles, Dur-A-Guard has a solution that fits perfectly and enhances the safety of your fleet.
Easy Installation and Maintenance
One of the standout features of Dur-A-Guard side guards is their user-friendly design. The guards are engineered for easy installation, allowing fleet operators to equip their vehicles quickly without extensive downtime. Additionally, maintenance is straightforward, with options for detachable guards that can be easily removed and reinstalled by a single person. This ensures that your vehicles remain operational and safe with minimal disruption.
High-Quality Materials and Durability
Dur-A-Guard side guards are constructed from high-quality materials such as aluminum, steel, and polymer composites. These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to withstand the rigors of daily use in various weather conditions. The robust construction ensures long-lasting protection, reducing the risk of damage and the need for frequent replacements.
Compliance with Safety Regulations
In an effort to support fleet operators in meeting regulatory requirements, Dur-A-Guard designs their side guards to comply with industry standards and legislation. By choosing Dur-A-Guard, you can be confident that your fleet adheres to local and national safety regulations, avoiding potential fines and enhancing your company’s reputation for safety.
Proven Effectiveness
Dur-A-Guard side guards have been proven to significantly reduce the risk of fatalities and severe injuries in side-impact collisions. Cities like New York, which have integrated Dur-A-Guard side guards into their fleets, have seen positive outcomes in their Vision Zero initiatives. The adoption of these safety measures demonstrates Dur-A-Guard’s commitment to saving lives and preventing accidents.
For insights into Dur-A-Guard’s impact, read the Modern WorkTruck Solutions’ article featuring their work with Action Carting Environmental Services.
The Future of Road Safety with Side Guards
The adoption of truck side guards is a crucial step toward achieving safer streets. As more cities and legislative bodies recognize their importance, the widespread implementation of side guards will continue to grow. By equipping your fleet with Dur-A-Guard side guards, you can enhance safety, comply with regulations, and contribute to the Vision Zero goal of eliminating traffic deaths and injuries.
Join the movement for safer streets by equipping your fleet with Dur-A-Guard side guards. Contact us today to learn more about our products and how they can protect your vehicles and enhance road safety.