Dive summary:
- All new garbage trucks in Cambridge, just outside of Toronto, will be outfitted with side guards to protect cyclists.
- MP Olivia Chow has been trying to push the bill to the national level but so far has only convinced haulers in Cambridge.
- The bill comes after numerous cyclists were pulled under the wheels of the trucks; Europe has mandated the guards for the past 30 years and Chow says it is about time Canada adopts the legislation as well.
From the article:
Karen McNeil Hartmann, whose husband Ulrich died in 2006, said she and her family believe side guards — which cover the spaces between a truck’s huge wheels — might have saved her husband’s life.
“We know that side guards save lives, mandatory or not,” she said.
“While safety rails will not prevent all future accidents, we believe that it is an initiative that will save many future lives,” added Tanner.
Chow said she has support from many safety groups, adding Ontario’s chief coroner recently recommended the federal government implement similar legislation “because it saves lives.” ...
