While federal rules have long required all commercial truck drivers to use seat belts, their passengers will now have to wear them as well.

Starting August 8, passengers riding in large commercial trucks will have to use seat belts whenever the vehicles are operated on public roads in interstate commerce. If they don’t, motor carriers and drivers will be held responsible.

The final rule is a revision of existing Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations.

Truck accidents

In 2014, 37 passengers traveling unrestrained in the cab of a large truck were killed in roadway crashes, according to the most recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).  Of this number, approximately one-third were ejected from the truck cab.

“Seat belts save lives – period,” said 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.”

Lower seat belt rates

FMCSA’s most recent Seat Belt Usage by Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV) Drivers Survey, published in March 2014, found that commercial motor vehicle passengers use seat belts at a lower rate (73 percent) than CMV  drivers (84 percent). 

“Using a seat belt is one of the safest, easiest, and smartest choices drivers and passengers can make before starting out on any road trip,” said FMCSA Acting Administrator Scott Darling.  “This rule further protects large truck occupants and will undoubtedly save more lives.”

Click here to read a copy of the final rule.