The Institute for Safer Trucking is a nonprofit organization committed to reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving trucks by implementing data-driven solutions. 

Education ∎ Community ∎ Collaboration

Top Priorities

*

Top Priorities *

  • Large trucks have been equipped with top-end speed limiter technology since the 1990s. This life-saving feature allows them to limit their maximum operating speeds. Slower speeds reduce the severity of a crash and increase a driver’s response time. A consensus-based policy to require all trucks to operate at a safe speed would benefit everyone on our roads. The FMCSA is currently working on a rule to require the use of top-end speed limiters in large trucks.

  • In the U.S, interstate motor carriers are required to carry a minimum amount of insurance, $750,000 per event, which was set in 1980. Increasing the minimum insurance would motivate insurers to conduct more robust oversight of the trucking industry and help to better cover the costs of truck crashes. If adjusted for medical-cost inflation over the last 40 years, the minimum would total over $5,000,000 in 2024 dollars.

  • Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) works by alerting truck drivers to objects with visual and audio alerts; if the driver does not respond, AEB applies the brakes for the driver to reduce the impact speed or prevent the crash altogether. Continued adoption of this technology and the upcoming mandate for AEB in large trucks, will lead to a reduction in truck crashes in the U.S.

  • An underride crash occurs when a passenger vehicle travels underneath a truck’s trailer. Trailers can be equipped with guards on the rear and sides that prevent underride. While rear guards are required by law, the standard should be stronger. Side guards are not required in the United States, despite being mandated in numerous other countries.

  • The adoption of dual-facing cameras in large trucks plays a pivotal role in enhancing road safety. These devices offer a clear view of both the driver's actions and road conditions, aiding in crash prevention and fostering an environment of accountability and improved safety practices in trucking companies of all sizes.

  • Over the years, there have been efforts by brokers to limit their liability in related crashes. While these attempts have been met with strong opposition at the Congressional level, there is a troubling state-based approach that has been moderately successful. Transparent and responsible brokerage practices must be a cornerstone of a modern trucking industry, ensuring that safety remains a top priority.

  • Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) in large trucks are essential for maintaining vehicle safety and efficiency. These systems provide real-time alerts on tire pressure issues, helping to prevent blowouts and improve fuel economy, contributing significantly to safer roadways. IST submitted a petition to expand the TPMS requirements (49 CFR 571.138) to trucks with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 10,001 pounds or more. This initiative aims to ensure optimal tire pressure maintenance, significantly reducing the risk of tire-related incidents involving large trucks.

  • Helping truck drivers stay within safe speed limits is essential for preventing crashes and saving lives. Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) uses GPS and onboard cameras to alert drivers—or even automatically limit engine power—when a truck exceeds the posted speed limit. IST supports requiring ISA in all new large trucks because the technology has been proven to reduce speeding-related crashes and significantly diminish speeding.

Support for Survivors and Families of Truck Crash Victims

Surviving and/or losing a loved one in a truck crash is a unique and difficult experience. The Institute for Safer Trucking can provide you with the information you need after a truck crash and connect you with others who have survived and/or lost a loved one in a truck crash.

Support Safer Trucking 

Your gift is tax-deductible.

Connect with us!

Please use this contact form and we will reach out shortly!

For media requests, please email Cara Haynie directly at chaynie@safertrucking.org.