NHTSA to hybrid vehicles: turn up the volume

March 06, 2013

NHTSA to hybrid vehicles: turn up the volume

Article provided by Callahan & Blaine
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Hybrid vehicles have increased in popularity in recent years, largely due to rising gas prices and the desire for a "greener" alternative to traditional gas or diesel engines. Although the vehicles offer superior gas mileage, they come with one unexpected problem: they operate so quietly at low speeds that they are almost inaudible to bystanders, pedestrians and bicyclists.

As a solution to the problem, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pursuant to the powers granted to it by the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act, recently proposed minimum sound standards for hybrids and other electric vehicles. By doing so, the agency aims to reduce the number of bicycle and pedestrian accidents.

Details of proposal

The reason that hybrid vehicles are almost silent at low speeds is that they work differently than gas or diesel vehicles. Unlike traditional motor vehicles, hybrids draw power from their batteries when traveling at low speeds. This makes the vehicle much more difficult to detect, even for those located near it.

Under the new proposed NHTSA regulations--named Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 151--automakers would have free reign in choosing how to make their hybrids audible. The new regulations, however, would require the sounds emitted by the vehicles to meet certain minimum standards, such as being loud enough to be heard over street and background noises. Additionally, the regulations would require each vehicle of the same make and model to emit the same sounds.

An attorney can help

The NHTSA is optimistic that the new proposals will positively affect roadway safety. According to agency's estimates, if the new regulations go into effect, they would reduce pedestrian and bicycle accidents by 2,800 over the life of each model of hybrid vehicle.

Bicycle and pedestrian accidents are significant problems in California. Although silent hybrids have their share of the blame, they are only a small part of the problem. The majority of such accidents are caused by driver negligence such as speeding or texting while driving.

Under California law, victims of a bicycle or pedestrian accident caused by negligence are entitled to file a lawsuit against the driver. The law allows those injured to recover damages such as lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. If you have been injured by a careless or inattentive driver, contact an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can advise you of your right to compensation and work to hold the responsible party accountable for his or her actions.