Motor Vehicle Safety Act Of 2010 - Giving The NHTSA Teeth

For the first time in 10 years, Congress is taking up the issue of vehicle safety with the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Next Thursday, this act will start being heard in subcommittees. Henry A. Waxman, a Democrat from California, is taking the helm on this legislation.

Motor Vehicle Safety Act gives NHTSA more spending budget

Because of the questions about the effectiveness of the NHTSA, the Motor Vehicle Safety Act is constructed in a way that will increase the spending budget accessible to the agency. Each automobile sold in the United States would have a $ 3 per automobile fee that will go directly into the NHTSA spending budget. The NHTSA would also have the cap on statutory damages removed, increasing how much it can fine car makers. There are numerous frustrated arguments that the fine the NHTSA could levy on Toyota was simply too small. Finally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration would be given the legal authority to initiate a recall if they identify a safety issue.

Aiming to improve safety with the MVSA

The Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 2010, if passed, would require new safety features on all vehicles. A black box would be required on all vehicles sold within the United States. All electronic and mechanical events in the automobile would be recorded by this black box. A lite version of airline black boxes, these automobile data safety recorders will not contain voice recorders. A new brake override system that could stop the automobile, besides a throttle stuck open, would also be required.

Reactions to the Motor Vehicle Safety Act

The Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 2010 is not loved by all, despite the support in Congress. The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, which represents U.S., European and Japanese automobile makers, said they were “concerned about the sheer number of new regulations”. ”Focus on the few measures that would produce one of the most substantial safety benefit in the shortest time” was the suggestion of the Alliance spokeswoman. For each new vehicle sold within the United States, these new regulations will cost between $20 and $30.

Article Resources

New York Times

Washington Post