The City Council of the City of Vancouver has unanimously passed a resolution side guard Mandatory for heavy trucks in urban areas of the city.
The decision comes after 28-year-old Agustín Beltrán was tragically killed on June 29, when he collided with dump truck Cycling in Yaletown.
At Wednesday’s city council meeting, councilors also discussed a review of traffic planning in areas where right-handers intersect with bike lanes, and called on the federal government to make side guards mandatory on semi-trucks.
In a tearful tone, Beltran’s companion addressed the council as to why the resolution should be passed.
Renata Rovello said, “After watching the accident from a few meters away, I know that if that truck had side guards, Agustin’s life would have been saved.”
“It is also possible that other things would have saved his life. Bicycle traffic signals, clear rules on the right side of the road, and heavy trucks not allowed inside the city are a few others.
Beltran’s cousin also spoke in favor of the guard rail at the meeting.
“The side guards on that truck would have saved Agustin’s life. The side guards could save your life, your cousin, your partner or your kids,” said Rodrigo Alessio.
“Let’s stop this from happening to anyone else.”
Side guards on heavy trucks essentially prevent anything, or anyone, from entering the space under the truck between the front and rear tires.
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