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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently issued a Consumer Alert press release cautioning consumers that trailers must meet Federal safety regulations in order to come into the U.S. This is an important notice concerning consumers, importers, dealers and trailer manufacturers. Apparently, there are noncompliant trailers that pose safety risks being imported into the U.S. on a regular basis. These trailers are typically being marketed and sold to small businesses. Commonly, they are being sold as food trucks or vending stations.  

Trailers and Food Trucks Must Be Compliant With Federal Safety Standards  

All trailers in the U.S. must meet all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards in order to be permitted and certified. Unfortunately, there has been a large influx of trailers not meeting the minimum standards. Consumers who are shopping might not be aware of this issue, so the NHTSA is hoping to get the word out.  

This is a huge problem. In addition to the potential safety risk of not meeting Federal safety standards, people trying to import them into the country or title and register them with local authorities can also get slapped with big expenses. Even if they get these noncompliant trailers registered, they can face potential forfeiture of the trailers down the road.  

Exercise Caution When Shopping For Imported Trailers and Food Trucks  

At this time, the NHTSA is urging trailer buyers to be very careful while they’re shopping. Exercise additional caution if you’re shopping with online trailer lists. Be even more wary if you’re looking at trailers that need to be imported into the U.S. A compliant trailer will have an affixed label on it indicating that it meets all necessary Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.  

Additionally, trailer shoppers should also consult the Vehicle Product Information Catalog and Vehicle Listing Manufacturer Portal to find out if the manufacturer is listed with the NHTSA before buying a trailer.  

If you have been injured or if you have lost a loved one in a car accident in San Diego or anywhere in Southern California, contact our skilled and proven team at Harris Personal Injury Lawyers, Inc. at 1.800.GO.HARRIS for a free case consultation today.