Transport Canada mandates new tech to improve motorcoach safety

New regulations require electronic stability control technology on new truck tractors and heavy buses sold in Canada. Electronic stability control systems are a crash avoidance technology that can reduce collisions by helping drivers maintain control, preventing rollovers, and improving directional stability. Electronic stability control technology is now required in new truck tractors, and school buses and intercity buses will require electronic stability control by June 2018.

Separate proposed regulations will introduce mandatory electronic logging devices for federally regulated motor carriers (trucks and buses) and their commercial drivers.

Electronic logging devices help a driver to remain compliant with the federal Commercial Vehicle Drivers Hours of Service Regulations, which reduces the potential for driver fatigue. Electronic logging devices also reduce the administrative burden related to paper log books.

“We’re constantly looking at how technology can improve road safety, and electronic stability control and electronic logging devices fit the bill, said The Honorable Marc Garneau, Minister of Transport. “These new measures not only make trucks and buses safer, but they also have a trickle-down effect of making the roads safer for all Canadians.”

Electronic logging devices that meet a new National Safety Code technical standard will become mandatory 2020. Devices now in use will be permitted until 2022.

Canada’s new regulations for both technologies are closely aligned with similar regulations in the U.S. to improve safety and to support economic growth, trade, and shipping.