New NHTSA rule to require rearview cameras by 2018

April 12, 2014 (Press-News.org) New NHTSA rule to require rearview cameras by 2018

Article provided by The Law Firm of Leisawitz Heller
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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently announced a final rule requiring all new cars sold in the U.S. to be equipped with rearview technology. This new rule, which goes into effect on May 1, 2018, is intended to prevent car accident injuries that occur due to drivers being unable to see what is behind them.

The new rule requires that all new passenger vehicles that weigh less than 10,000 pounds be equipped with rearview cameras. The rule includes new buses and trucks, but does not include motorcycles. The rule allows for the cameras to be mounted almost anywhere in the rear of the vehicle. The system must provide drivers with a view of at least 10 by 20 feet behind the vehicle and must meet requirements regarding display size.

Sadly, backup accidents are more common in the U.S. than many people might think. According to the NHTSA, about 15,000 people are injured and about 210 killed in these sorts of accidents each year. The most common victims of these sorts of accidents are children under five years old and adults over the age of 70. The NHTSA estimates that its new rule will prevent approximately 1,125 injuries and 15 deaths every year.

The rule requiring backup cameras has been in the making for several years, but the development of final standards had been delayed for some time. Some safety experts criticized the NHTSA for dragging its feet, saying that the agency was dragging its feet due to concerns that the new requirements would prove to be too much a burden for the auto industry to bear in a down market.

Overall, the costs associated with the new requirements are likely to be low. By some estimates, the systems will cost no more than $142 per new vehicle. Auto manufacturers are expected to begin making the necessary changes to their designs in 2016. No matter the costs, these new technologies are expected to play a large role in stopping accidents that are easily preventable.

Those who have been injured in a car accident should be aware that they have rights. Depending on the circumstances, this may include a right to reimbursement for medical bills and time away from work. To learn more, speak to a knowledgeable personal injury attorney. In some cases, your time to file a claim may be limited. Do not delay, schedule a meeting with a personal injury attorney today.