Government Regulation Prevents Hybrid Cars from Traveling Silently

New federal regulations will require that hybrid and electric vehicles emit a sound while traveling at low-speeds in an effort to increase safety for pedestrians, especially those who are visually-impaired.

The regulations imposed by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will require hybrid and electric vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds make an audible sound when traveling at speeds of 19 mph or slower.

Noise regulations are not required for higher speeds because the natural and mechanical noises will adequately alert pedestrians that a vehicle is approaching, according to the NHTSA.

Manufacturers have a deadline of Sept. 1, 2019 to meet the NHTSA’s safety regulations. The administration is also requiring that half of all newly manufactured hybrid and electric vehicles meet the noise regulations one year before the deadline.

By including a noise requirement on hybrid vehicles, which are known for having the ability to travel silently, the NHTSA hopes to prevent about 2,400 pedestrian injuries each year once the regulations go into effect.

The NHTSA’s new rule, called Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 141, aligns with the Congressional mandate found in the Pedestrian Safety Enhancement Act requiring all hybrid and electric vehicles emit a noise at low-speeds to increase safety for visually-impaired pedestrians.

In light of recent spikes in pedestrian deaths, the NHTSA and advocacy groups for the visually-impaired consider the new requirements to be a common sense move that ensures the safety of all pedestrians.

Milwaukee has also experienced a rise in pedestrian deaths that has caused concern for city officials and citizens. As of November, there have been 12 pedestrian deaths in the city, with a total of 40 pedestrian fatalities across the state.

Pedestrian accidents can result in horrible injuries and often death for the victims involved. If you have been injured or someone you loved was killed in a pedestrian accident, you may be entitled to compensation for any medical bills, lost wages or suffering you have endured.

At Pitman, Kalkhoff, Sicula & Dentice, our car accident lawyers in Milwaukee will provide you with a free consultation and review your claim to determine if you have a case. We require no fees unless you are awarded compensation or receive a favorable outcome.

Call 877-877-2228 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form to reach our team of Milwaukee personal injury lawyers.