Today, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) issues a regulation requiring all vehicles to have rear-view visibility (i.e. backup cameras). This rule will apply to all vehicles under 10,000 pounds and must be accomplished by May 2018. U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx released this statement with the ruling, “safety is our highest priority, and we are committed to protecting the most vulnerable victims of backover accidents – our children and seniors.”
NHTSA Acting Administrator David Friedman said, “Rear visibility requirements will save lives, and will save many families from the heartache suffered after these tragic incidents occur. […]We’re already recommending this kind of life-saving technology through our NCAP program and encouraging consumers to consider it when buying cars today.” According to the press release, on average there are “210 fatalities and 15,000 injuries per year caused by backover crashes,” with 31% of victims being children under the age of 5.
While the regulation is brand new, the law behind the regulation has been waiting for action since it was signed into law 2008. The 2008 Auto-Safety law (Cameron Gulbransen Kids Transportation Safety Act of 2007) was signed by President George W. Bush which mandated rear-view cameras to be regulated by the Department of Transportation in 2011. According to a letter from President Barack Obama, requiring backup cameras would add between $58 to $203 to the cost of a new vehicle, a price well worth minimize the injuries and fatalities.
This regulation is the latest move to make vehicles on the road safer for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. With the creation of blind spot monitor, cross traffic alerts, and Nissan’s “Around View Monitor” which creates a bird’s eye view 360 degrees around the vehicle, auto makers and the Federal government are increasing safety on our roadways.
Even though car technology is making it safer on the roadways, driver inattention and distraction can still cause horrific accidents. If you or someone you know has been in an auto accident please do not hesitate to contact us today, immediate help from an attorney can best help you maintain your rights and protect your interests.