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AAA Says Share the Road Tactics and Better Tractor-Trailer Design Will Help Combat Danger from Truck Splash and Spray

WASHINGTON--Oct. 2, 20033, 2003--In response to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety's new study on the reduced visibility of motorists due to truck splash and spray, today encouraged the trucking industry to help address the problem by accelerating the retirement of older, less aerodynamic tractor-trailers. AAA also renewed its emphasis on share the road techniques through its nationwide Share with Care program. According to the Foundation study, the addition of popular after-market products such as fender, brush or flap systems to tractor-trailers does not significantly reduce spray by large trucks in wet weather. However, the improved vehicle aerodynamics of newer tractor-trailer models does significantly reduce the amount of spray generated, according to the study, which was funded by the AAA Foundation and conducted by the Texas Transportation Institute.

"Nearly all motorists have experienced the problem of reduced visibility due to truck splash and spray when driving on wet roads," said Bella Dinh-Zarr, PhD, AAA Director of Traffic Safety Policy. "In wet weather, this spray can temporarily leave a car's windshield completely obstructed and can hinder a driver's ability to safely react to circumstances on the road."

AAA is sharing the Foundation's findings with the trucking industry and encouraging them to update their fleets with tractor-trailers from 1997 or newer. More aerodynamic designs were more effective in reducing spray.

"We recognize the trucking industry cannot update its entire fleet with newer, more aerodynamic tractor-trailer designs overnight," said Dinh-Zarr. "In the meantime, both motorists and truckers should continue to be vigilant in practicing safe driving techniques, as recommended in our Share with Care program."

AAA's Share with Care program, originally launched in 2000, is part of the Association's commitment to improving highway safety and recognizes that both professional truck drivers and motorists play roles in keeping the road safe.

Splash and Spray Safety Tips for Motorists

-- Splash and spray can be a hazard anytime your car is in close proximity to a moving tractor-trailer. Anticipate it and try to minimize your exposure.

-- If you can do so safely, change lanes well before you pass a large truck.

-- Make sure your wiper blades are in good working order. Remember to maintain adequate wiper fluid to keep your windshield clear of road grime.

-- Note that splash and spray can still be an issue even after the rain has stopped. Anticipate residual effects when driving around large trucks on a wet roadway.

-- Always maintain at least a four-second following distance when driving behind a tractor-trailer. A sufficient following distance will let you safely navigate intersections, merges, and other complex road situations.

-- When possible, do not travel for extended periods beside or behind a truck. This will help you avoid spray and a trucker's blind spots.

In addition to the tips above, motorists can access the AAA Share with Care--Sharing the Road information at www.aaapublicaffairs.com.

As North America's largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides its 46 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers.