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Policy, Planning and Environment

Surface Transportation Systems Safety

The U.S. DOT Volpe Center’s Surface Transportation Systems Safety Division works closely with federal, state, and local agencies to develop and implement data-driven programs that improve transportation safety through innovative technologies, programs, policies, and practices.

Effects of Side Skirts and Wheel Covers on Heavy Trailers

About This Document

National Research Council Canada Prepared for: Transport Canada Road Safety 275 Stater Sl Ottawa, ON

Prepared by: Jeff Patten, P. Eng. Chelsey Laionde, EIT William Mayda, P. Eng. Gordon Poole, P. Eng.

Technical Report April 5, 2012

Truck Lateral Protective Device (LPD) Resources

Note: the term "side guard" is used colloquially throughout this webpage and related materials, but refers to "lateral protective devices" and not to "underride" guards. 

Truck lateral protective devices are vehicle-based safety devices designed to keep pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists from being run over by a large truck’s rear wheels in a side-impact collision.

The Freight and Fuel Transportation Optimization Tool

Volpe developed a national model for evaluating fuel transport patterns, costs, and impacts to respond to military and commercial aviation sectors' need for reliable fuel supplies that can be distributed throughout supply chains in the continental United States and elsewhere.