Requires certain commercial motor vehicles registered in State to be equipped with underride protection systems and requires Chief Administrator of MVC to establish underride public awareness campaign.
Impact
The implementation of S4149 could have a significant impact on state traffic regulation laws, particularly regarding vehicle safety standards. The bill requires that all CMVs in New Jersey comply with this new safety requirement, thereby likely increasing operational costs for businesses utilizing such vehicles. However, the expected reduction in fatalities based on statistical data from previous years underscores the potential benefits of implementing underride protection systems.
Summary
Senate Bill S4149 mandates that specific commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) registered in New Jersey must be equipped with underride protection systems. This bill aims to reduce the risk of vehicles sliding under large trucks or buses, an occurrence associated with severe injuries or fatalities in traffic accidents. The bill defines an underride protection system as devices installed on the front, rear, and sides of a CMV to prevent other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists from passing underneath during a crash.
Contention
While proponents of S4149 argue that the bill will enhance public safety by preventing accidents that result from underrides, there may be concerns regarding the financial implications for businesses that operate CMVs. The introduction of fines for non-compliance—ranging from $50 to $200 for violations—could generate pushback from commercial vehicle operators who may view the requirements as burdensome. Moreover, the requirement for a public awareness campaign adds another layer of state involvement that could lead to further discussions on the appropriateness of government regulations in business operations.
Same As
Requires certain commercial motor vehicles registered in State to be equipped with underride protection systems and requires Chief Administrator of MVC to establish underride public awareness campaign.
Requires certain commercial motor vehicles registered in State to be equipped with underride protection systems and requires Chief Administrator of MVC to establish underride public awareness campaign.
Requires certain commercial motor vehicles registered in State to be equipped with underride protection systems and requires Chief Administrator of MVC to establish underride public awareness campaign.
Directs MVC to establish public information campaign concerning certain motorized vehicles; establishes 15-mile-per-hour speed limit for certain motorized vehicles.
Directs MVC to establish public information campaign concerning certain motorized vehicles; establishes 15-mile-per-hour speed limit for certain motorized vehicles.
Requires certain commercial motor vehicles registered in State to be equipped with underride protection systems and requires Chief Administrator of MVC to establish underride public awareness campaign.
Requires certain commercial motor vehicles registered in State to be equipped with underride protection systems and requires Chief Administrator of MVC to establish underride public awareness campaign.