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.
If enacted, S2158 will amass a considerable impact on state motor vehicle regulations, effectively supplementing Title 39 of the New Jersey Revised Statutes. Failing to comply with this regulation will result in fines, ranging from $50 to $200 depending on the number of offenses. The law aims to promote compliance through financial penalties while enhancing overall road safety, particularly for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists. Historically, underride incidents have been linked to a significant number of fatalities in crashes involving large vehicles, underscoring the bill's necessity.
Senate Bill 2158 aims to enhance the safety of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs) registered in New Jersey by mandating the installation of underride protection systems. These systems are designed to minimize the risk of vehicles sliding underneath larger trucks or buses during crashes, significantly reducing the potential for severe injuries or fatalities among occupants of smaller vehicles. The bill specifically prohibits the operation of CMVs in the state without these protective systems, which are defined as devices installed on the front, rear, and sides of a CMV that prevent underride incidents.
While the bill’s primary focus is to safeguard lives, discussions around its implementation may involve debates regarding the cost burden on commercial vehicle operators and the logistical challenges of retrofitting existing fleets with the required systems. Proponents argue that the measure is necessary for public safety and may lead to a reduction in insurance costs over time due to fewer accidents. However, opponents might voice concerns regarding the financial implications for businesses, especially small operators struggling with regulatory compliance and installation expenses.