Because being stuck along America’s roadways is a dangerous and growing problem, the federal government would be responsible for developing a strategic plan to end roadside vehicle accidents under a bipartisan bill introduced on Sept. 11 by U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-IN).
The Preventing Roadside Deaths Act, H.R. 9536, which Rep. Yakym cosponsored alongside bill sponsor U.S. Rep. Troy Carter (D-LA), would require the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to collect, analyze, compile, and publish accurate, detailed data on disabled roadside vehicle accidents toward developing this plan.
“Injuries and deaths resulting from crashes involving disabled roadside vehicles are a tragic and largely preventable problem in our country,” said Rep. Yakym. “I am proud to partner with Congressman Carter on this commonsense, bipartisan legislation so we can help solve a very real issue that affects tens of thousands of people each year and advance a goal we both share: keeping our constituents and all Americans safe on the sides of our roads.”
If enacted, H.R. 9536 also would task a working group convened by DOT and relevant stakeholder groups to develop the strategic plan to combat the issue, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Yakym’s staff.
Existing federal funding and authorization provided under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (the current Surface Transportation Act) would be used by states and cities to provide the necessary data and implement programs to prevent these accidents, the summary says.
“I’m proud to introduce this bill, which addresses an urgent and preventable traffic safety crisis,” Rep. Carter said. “No one should lose their life while performing something as routine as changing a tire or refueling their car. This legislation protects everyday road users and the professionals and first responders who risk their lives to keep our roads safe. It’s past time for comprehensive action to prevent these avoidable roadside deaths.”
The National Safety Council, the Urban League of Louisiana, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, the American Automobile Association, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the American Association of State Troopers, and Major County Sheriffs of America support the bill.