Safety lamp standard ruling delayed for more review

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has delayed the effective date of an amendment that reorganizes and improves the structure and clarity of the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108 for Lamps, Reflective Devices and Associated Equipment, according to information from the Automotive Service Association (ASA).

NHTSA received 15 petitions against the final rule, including requests for delays and concerns of new requirements being imposed by FMVSS No. 108, causing them to delay its implementation from Sept. 1, 2008, to Dec. 1, 2009.

NHTSA’s proposal specifies standards for original and replacement lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment in order to reduce traffic accidents, and deaths and injuries from traffic accidents. These requirements provide adequate illumination of roadways and enhance visibility of motor vehicles on public roads to prevent reduced visibility in daylight, darkness and threatening weather conditions, according to the release.

The amendments set to be effective Sept. 1, 2008, sought to reorganize standards and provide a more efficient and straightforward version of the regulatory requirements. It clarified requirements by eliminating third-party standards, but it did not substantially change them for manufacturers.

However, due to the petitions, NHTSA ruled that the final rule needed to be examined more closely and the petitions analyzed in depth.

To view this regulation, visit the Automotive Service Association’s legislative Web site, www.TakingTheHill.com.