Missing half of my bumper? Illegal?

Discussion in 'Trucking Industry Regulations' started by Askingalexandria, Feb 14, 2018.

  1. 201

    201 Road Train Member

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    It would be a new one for me. Years ago, when bumpers were bumpers, you'd see all kinds of bent bumpers, bent a few myself. Many companies cut the bumpers off on either side so in the event of a mishap, the bumper wouldn't go into the steer tire. I wouldn't worry about it. Just looks bad, like walking around with your zipper open.:biggrin_25512:
     
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  3. lilillill

    lilillill Sarcasm... it's not just for breakfast

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    I’ll second this. Only use the insurance if the truck is totalled or stolen. If it’s fixable/driveable, you’re much better off taking a few dollars out of your own pocket. It costs less in the end.
     
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  4. Grumppy

    Grumppy Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    If its REALLY the bumper (protection), yes it technically, legally needs to be there. If its just the decorative rubber, plastic or fiberglass cover, its not required. The steel actual bumper is there for safety/protection. Just like a DOT bumper on the trailer. Its a reason for it.... safety. If you rear-end someone, it keeps them from shooting out the rear of the truck/trailer. The bumper catches the car & pushes it rather than allowing it to go under the truck. Same thing in a head on situation.

    So, again, if the "bumper" is missing or damaged, its "technically" illegal. If its the decorative cover, its not required.
     
  5. dibstr

    dibstr Road Train Member

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    e) The front bumper must not be missing, loosely attached, or protruding beyond the confines of the vehicle so as to create a hazard. 393.203
     
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  6. dibstr

    dibstr Road Train Member

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  7. ZVar

    ZVar Road Train Member

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    And if you are having trouble paying for a bumper, what else are you putting off? Brakes maybe?

    At least that's why dot will be pulling you in.

    And they are not wrong. If you cannot fix your truck you should go back to being a company driver untill you can.
     
  8. Askingalexandria

    Askingalexandria Light Load Member

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    Yes it needs to be there I'm at shop now shot my life sucks again I'm in the shop this year has been rough time for a switch I'll make more working at mcdonalds
     
  9. Ridgeline

    Ridgeline Road Train Member

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    Well I don't want to sound harsh but if you are worried about a bumper and don't have money to put one on, maybe you need to be a company driver. You should have more than enough money to put a bumper on a truck. Crap a complete bumper is less than $350.
     
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  10. 6wheeler

    6wheeler Road Train Member

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    My front bumper has been missing for 7 years now. Never been a problem with DOT but I try my best to avoid them
     
  11. Ridgeline

    Ridgeline Road Train Member

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    Oh by the way I think the regs do not define a bumper as something that goes all away across
     
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