Lax Safety Measures Put Arizona Drivers at Risk Against Large Trucks

When a crash occurs between a large truck and a smaller vehicle, the results are often devastating. 

According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 72% of fatalities in large truck crashes are occupants of the smaller vehicle. 

In Arizona, the risk is even higher: out of 1,707 fatal traffic crashes in 2021, 127 involved large trucks. That means 7.4% of all fatal crashes in the state involved large trucks, significantly exceeding the national average of 2.2%.

While truck accidents are always dangerous, underride crashes — where a smaller vehicle slides under a large truck — are particularly deadly. 

These accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities due to the height difference between trucks and passenger vehicles. Despite clear evidence that safety measures could prevent many of these tragedies, government regulators and the trucking industry have failed to take meaningful action.

Lax Safety Measures Cause More Deaths

Underride crashes happen when a smaller vehicle slides underneath a large truck, exposing occupants to extreme risks. These crashes are often fatal because the impact occurs at the windshield or roof level, bypassing standard safety features like airbags and seatbelts.

What are the safety measures that are being ignored? 

• Inadequate rear underride guards: While required on most trucks, these guards frequently fail in high-speed crashes.
• Lack of side underride protection: Side underride crashes remain largely unregulated, despite clear evidence that side guards could prevent fatalities.
• Truck drivers unaware of collisions: Due to the truck’s height and size, some drivers don’t even realize a crash has occurred.

Victims’ families have pushed for stronger safety measures, but change has been slow due to industry resistance and government inaction.

Why is the Trucking Industry and Government Refusing to Do Anything?

Despite knowing about underride dangers for decades, both federal agencies and the trucking industry have done little to mandate effective solutions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been criticized for slow responses and weak enforcement, while the trucking industry has actively resisted change. The key reasons for inaction include:

Inconsistent crash data collection 

Many underride crashes are misclassified or not reported, making it difficult to assess the true scope of the problem. A 2019 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report highlighted this issue and recommended improvements in how crash data is collected and classified, but progress has been slow.

Delays in safety updates 

While rear underride guards have been required since 1998, improvements have been slow, and side guards remain optional despite their proven effectiveness.

Cost concerns from the trucking industry 

Companies argue that implementing underride guards, especially on the sides, would be too expensive and impact fuel efficiency.

Industry lobbying efforts 

Trucking companies have pushed back against regulations, delaying mandates that could save hundreds of lives annually.

Although research and crash tests from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) show that properly designed underride guards can prevent fatalities, industry resistance and regulatory delays continue to put drivers at risk.

How to Drive Safely Around Semi-Trucks

While regulatory changes are necessary to improve safety, drivers can also take steps to protect themselves when sharing the road with large trucks. Here are some key tips:

• Maintain a Safe Distance: Stay at least four seconds behind a truck and give ample space when merging.

• Avoid Blind Spots: Truck drivers have large blind spots in front, behind, and on both sides of their vehicle. If you can’t see the driver in their mirror, they likely can’t see you.

• Pass Quickly and Carefully: When overtaking a truck, do so quickly and with plenty of space before merging back into the lane.

• Use Turn Signals Early: Giving truck drivers extra time to react can help prevent sudden braking or swerving.

• Be Mindful of Wide Turns: Trucks often swing left before making a right turn, so avoid getting caught in the gap.

Holding Negligent Parties Accountable

While stronger regulations and industry action are necessary to prevent future tragedies, legal action can help victims secure the financial support they need to recover.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a truck accident and you wish to discuss the specifics of your case in a free consultation with an experienced Tucson personal injury lawyer, please contact us today.