On April 12th, 2025, my son Noah Repasky tragically lost his life in an accident involving a semi-trailer. He was 24. This needless loss of life occurred because the dock lacked exterior lighting, and the semi-trailer driver did not equip his trailer with essential safety features, including brake lights, taillights, and a backup alarm. This devastating incident has revealed a critical safety oversight that must be addressed immediately to prevent future tragedies. 

Semi docks are busy hubs of activity where visibility is paramount for the safety of truck drivers, dock workers, and anyone in the vicinity. Unfortunately, many docks operate without adequate exterior lighting, making it difficult for drivers to navigate safely, especially during nighttime or adverse weather conditions. Additionally, the absence of the driver plugging in the cable that would of gave him brake lights, taillights, and a backup alarms on semi-trailers poses a severe risk to lives. However, if there were lights at the dock my son would have seen the semi-trailer backing up right at him. He was pinned between the dock and the trailer for approximately 22 minutes before anyone noticed Noah. Then it took them another 2 minutes to move the truck. My son, Noah had his safety vest on. With out any lights he did not have a chance.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that inadequate lighting and signaling equipment are contributing factors in many vehicular accidents involving heavy trucks. According to their data, enhancing visibility through proper lighting can significantly reduce accidents and save lives.

We are calling for mandatory legislation that requires all semi docks to be equipped with sufficient lighting on the exterior of the building at each dock. This will ensure that semi drivers have the visibility required to safely maneuver their vehicles. Furthermore, we urge regulations mandating the That all semi-trailers' in motion have brake lights, taillights, and backup alarms as non-negotiable safety measures.

This is not just a plea; it is a necessary step to enhance the safety infrastructure of our logistics and transportation industry. Our roads are shared spaces, and it is our collective responsibility to make them safer for everyone.

For the sake of safety and to honor the memory of those whom we have lost, I urge you to support this petition. Let's work together to implement these critical changes to prevent any more unnecessary tragedies. Please sign this petition and be a part of the movement advocating for safer dock operations for all."