NHTSA finalizes Rule to Improve Auto Access for People With Disabilities

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) just issued a press release about their recent finalization of a rule to increase access to rental cars and to simplify transportation of wheelchairs and power scooters for disabled drivers and passenger occupants. According to the NHTSA, the new rule will improve equity and mobility for drivers and passengers with disabilities. The rule will also legally permit three specific modifications to vehicles to allow for adaptive driving equipment.   

Three Modifications for Adaptive Equipment in Vehicles

  • Rental car companies will be allowed to temporarily disable a driver’s knee bolster air bag to install hand controls for people with disabilities. If a knee bolster air bag deploys in a crash, it can interfere with the safe use of physical hand controls.
  • The installation of rear-mounted transporters for wheelchairs and power scooters will be permitted. These transporters may partially block the backup camera’s view and would not be allowed without this exemption.
  • Modifiers will be able to lawfully raise the height of a vehicle’s roof to accommodate drivers and passengers with disabilities.   

In the past, Federal law prohibited manufacturers, distributors, dealers, rental companies and repair shops from knowingly disabling any part or device or element of design installed on or in a motor vehicle in compliance with a Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard. This finalized rule will help to make transportation more equitable and accessible for people with disabilities.  

Car Accidents in San Diego  

After any kind of car accident caused by a dangerous or distracted driver, it’s a good idea to speak with a Personal Injury lawyer about your case. You may be entitled to compensation to pay for medical bills, lost wages and cover other expenses associated with your injuries. A lawyer can be your advocate and fight to get you the compensation you deserve after an injury accident.  

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