The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) issued an amendment to the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act to allow certain “vehicle safety technology” to be mounted on the interior of truck windshields. This includes the area that is swept by windshield wipers.
These devices can now be mounted where they would have previously been in violation of regulations. Devices are not mandatory, but are now allowed to be used as long as they are out of a driver’s sight lines to road and highway signs and signals.
The amended FAST Act ruling will go into effect on October 23, 2016 and includes, but is not limited to, the following devices:
- Camera systems
- Speed management systems
- Video event recorders
- Lane departure warning systems
- Collision warning or mitigation systems
- Active cruise control systems
- Hands-free driver transponders and sensors
Mounted devices must be no more than four inches below the upper edge or seven inches above the lower edge of the area swept by the windshield wipers. This is the “location that maximizes their effectiveness without impairing operational safety.” Antennas and other non-safety related technologies are still prohibited from being mounted in this area.
New safety devices and technology do not eliminate the potential for human error – and the accidents that result. Truck accidents tend to be more severe, and often result in serious injury or even death. If you or a loved one has been in an accident, protect your legal rights. Contact a personal injury attorney to help you obtain help with your legal claim – and obtain the justice you deserve.
