NHTSA Will Soon Propose Placing Speed-Limiting Devices on Commercial Trucks
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is proposing to place speed-limiting devices on trucks. The initiative - originally submitted in 2006 by the American Trucking Association, Road Safe America, as well as a group of nine trucking companies -aims to prevent heavy trucks from traveling at excessive speeds.
Specifically, the NHTSA plans to install speed governors inside commercial engines, inhibiting trucks weighing over 26,000 pounds from being able to travel faster than 68 miles per hour.
Benefits of the Rule
Proponents of the rule cite economic as well as safety benefits that would result from installing these devices.
The Technology and Maintenance Council of ATA indicates that capping speeds for commercial trucks would decrease fuel consumption and increase the lifespan of tires. Also, advocates say, heavy trucks that reduce speeds will be able to respond to emergency situations better.
Tamper-Resistant Versus Tamper-Proof Devices
One of the major issues the rule will need to address is the type of speed-limiting device that will be required. There are two types of possible devices, those that are tamper-resistant and those that are tamper-proof. Tamper-resistant controls are much less expensive for trucking companies, but easier for drivers and companies to alter.
Critics of the rule say that factors other than speed contribute to trucking accidents and fatalities such as weather or road conditions. By focusing solely on speed, opponents argue, officials may miss other opportunities to help make the industry safer.
Some trucking companies are ahead of the game and have already installed speed-limiters. Schneider National has been using limitation devices set for 65 miles per hour on most of its fleet since 1996 and promotes using the devices. The company says that prior to 1996, heavy trucks without the devices accounted for 40 percent of Schneider's serious accidents.
A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is not expected until 2012.
