The Results of the IIHS Car Truck Accident Study
According to the IIHS study, cars traveling at moderate speeds or higher cause rear impact guards to give way and allow the cars to slip underneath tractor trailers, resulting in serious injuries and fatalities. The IIHS study further concluded that there are steps that can be taken to prevent these types of injuries.
Specifically:
- Rear impact guards that are designed according to Canadian standards are 75% stronger and better protect car drivers and passengers. Thus, the technology exists to improve the quality of truck rear impact guards.
- The U.S. does not currently require rear impact guards to be inspected after they are installed. Some rear impact guards may be installed incorrectly or become damaged, thus creating a dangerous situation.
What Will Happen Next?
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that it has been aware of the problem since 2009, and that it hopes to complete its review of the issue by 2012. In the meantime, it is important to contact a Marietta truck accident attorney if you've been injured.
If you have been hurt when your car rear-ended a truck in the Marietta area, then you may be entitled to damages if your Marietta truck accident lawyer can prove that there was a problem with the truck's rear impact guard.
We invite you to read our free e-book to learn more about what you should do after a Georgia car and truck accident, 4 Common Mistakes That Will Ruin Your Georgia Car or Truck Claim, and we invite you to call an experienced truck lawyer at 1.770.518.1133 to learn more about your rights and potential recovery.