The editorial “On road to improving traffic safety with program,” (The Columbian, Aug. 9) raises awareness about the unconscionable harm motor vehicle crashes inflict on public works road crews and all road users. In addition to the solutions mentioned in this editorial, verified safety technologies need to be required as standard equipment subject to new federal safety standards to stem the bloodshed on our nation’s roadways.
As chair of the committee responsible for auto safety, Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Wash., was integral in getting safety improvements in the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. They included advanced driver assistance systems, such as automatic emergency braking in new cars and trucks, and impaired driving prevention technology. The U.S. Department of Transportation needs to complete the vehicle safety rulemakings mandated in the bipartisan law and other overdue statutorily mandated advances.
DOT agencies have taken the first step in issuing Notices of Proposed Rulemakings for AEB in cars and trucks, but comprehensive final rules must be brought over the finish line swiftly to curb the staggering toll of lives, injuries and costs on our roadways and in our communities.
