The FMCSA to Mandate Safety Belts for Commercial Vehicle Passengers

While there have long been laws requiring commercial drivers to wear seatbelts while operating their vehicles, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has recently revised its regulations to mandate that passengers must also wear safety belts when traveling in large commercial trucks.

Beginning August 8, 2016, commercial drivers and motor carriers will be held accountable for commercial vehicle passengers not wearing their seat belt.

“Seat belts save lives – period,” stated U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx. “Whether you’re a driver or passenger, in a personal vehicle or large truck, the simple act of wearing a safety belt significantly reduces the risk of fatality in a crash.”

Data provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that there were 37 fatalities in 2014 due to accidents where passengers were traveling in large commercial trucks while not wearing a safety belt; about a third of those were ejected from the vehicle.

According to results from the latest FMCSA Seat Belt Usage by Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Drivers Survey, which was reported in March, 2014, only 73 percent of commercial vehicle passengers were likely to wear seatbelts compared with 84 percent of drivers.

Logistec/TTS Resident Agents Service always encourages drivers and their passengers to use safe driving practices to protect you and your fellow motorists.