FMCSAFinal Rule
Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation: Certification and Labeling Requirements for Rear Impact Protection Guards
Transportation
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Summary
This regulation requires truck manufacturers and parts makers to certify and properly label safety guards on the back of large trucks to prevent smaller vehicles from sliding underneath during rear-end collisions. The new standards aim to reduce serious injuries and deaths in accidents involving trucks.
Key Points
- 1Manufacturers must test and certify that rear impact guards on trucks meet specific safety standards before selling them
- 2All guards must have clear labels showing they meet federal safety requirements so buyers know they're getting proper protection
- 3The rule applies to companies that make trucks and the companies that make replacement parts and accessories for trucks
- 4These safety guards are particularly important for protecting cars and motorcycles from sliding under the back of large trucks in crashes
- 5Compliance requirements begin after the regulation's effective date, with manufacturers needing time to update their certification and labeling processes
Impact Assessment
If you are a truck manufacturer or parts maker, you must certify and label rear impact protection guards to meet new safety standards, increasing design and testing costs but reducing liability from underride accidents.
Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope
National
Compliance Cost
Moderate
Who is Affected
ManufacturersTransportation CompaniesConsumers
Key Dates
Published
February 19, 2026
Regulatory Connections
Authorized By
Amends CFR Sections
49 CFR Part 571
This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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