OTTAWA, (Oct. 1, 2004) — Trailer manufacturers will be required to build stronger rear impact guards to better protect people in vehicles involved in rear-end collisions with transport trailers, Transport Canada announced.

Transport Minister Jean C. Lapierre said the amendments to the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations will require newly manufactured trailers to be equipped with rear impact guards to prevent vehicles from sliding under the rear — also known as “underride” collisions. Transport Canada reports there are 20 fatalities and more than 100 injuries a year related to such accidents.

The new requirement — which will take effect next year — will apply only to newly manufactured trailers with a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 kilograms or more. Trailers with a low chassis or those whose wheels or structure prevent or limit underride will not be affected.

The rule does not pertain to U.S. trailers coming into Canada. The U.S. brought in tough impact guard standards in 1998, and some Canadian provinces, including Ontario and Quebec, have adopted similar regulations. Many of about 230 trailer manufacturers in Canada have some form of rear guards — basically steel beams that prevent cars from getting jammed underneath.

Transport Canada said some of its amendments to regulations would require even tougher standard than the U.S.

The amendments will be published in the Canada Gazette, Part II next week.