Chicago city council recently passed an ordinance requiring life-saving equipment on large trucks as part of the city’s Vision Zero Action Plan.
The Vision Zero Action Plan is a multi-agency program aimed at improving traffic safety and eliminating serious traffic injuries and fatalities in the city by 2026.
Under the ordinance, vehicles weighing at least 10,000 pounds that are operated by city contractors will be required to install convex mirrors and side guards.
Businesses have a year before the first phase of compliance. Businesses able to demonstrate undue financial hardship will receive a waiver.
All equipment must be installed between July 1, 2018, and Jan. 1, 2021.
The city also will install convex mirrors and side guards on its vehicles over the next decade.
“Data shows us that large vehicles have been identified as a particular area of concern,” Rebekah Scheinfeld, Chicago Department of Transportation commissioner, said. “By working together, and requiring these low-cost features, the City will help make streets safer for all users.”
Since 2010, there have been 33 pedestrian and cyclist fatalities involving large vehicles in Chicago.
Other U.S. cities have implemented the installation of side guards on large vehicles.
In the UK, convex mirrors and side guards are required and have reduced bicyclist fatalities by 61 percent and pedestrian fatalities by 20 percent since implementation.