The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) has unveiled a public service announcement in an effort to encourage truck drivers to buckle seat belts.
FMCSA pointed out that while 81 percent of the general driving population wears a safety belt, only 59 percent of commercial vehicle drivers buckle up when they climb behind the wheel. In 2006, 45 percent of truckers killed in a crash were not wearing safety belts. FMCSA regulations require all commercial vehicle drivers to use proper restraints.
The promotion features former NASCAR driver Rusty Wallace, currently an analyst for ESPN and ABC Sports, who reminds truckers that they have a responsibility to drive safely and buckle up. The public service announcement, Be Buckled. Be Ready., is aimed at increasing the number of truckers who regularly use a safety belt.
More information about the FMCSA's safety belt program for truck drivers is online at fmcsa.dot.gov.