Two federal agencies announced a joint proposed rule requiring automatic emergency braking systems on heavy trucks, aiming to mitigate the frequency and severity of rear-end crashes.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has said that by preventing crashes, electronic stability control will save lives, prevent property damage and reduce congestion.

New Classes 7-8 tractors sold on or after Aug. 1 must be equipped with electronic stability control, which means that more fleets will need a greater understanding of the technology.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on June 3 released its long-awaited final rule on stability control, saying it will affect Classes 7-8 trucks in two years.

The White House Office of Management and Budget has completed its review of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s final rule on electronic stability control systems for heavy vehicles, bringing it a step closer to publication.