Interpretation ID: aiam1899
Esq.
Messrs. Bernard & Bernard
4100 One Shell Plaza
Houston
TX 77002;
Dear Mr. Bernard: This is in reply to your letter of April 21, 1975, asking whethe certain 'safety lights' would violate the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966.; As you describe it, your client's device flashes two lights at the rea of a motorcycle when brakes are applied. These lights are supplemental 'to the normal brake lights and turn signal lights.'; Paragraph S4.1.3 of 49 CFR 571.108, Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No 108, *Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment*, prohibits the installation of additional lighting equipment 'that impairs the effectiveness of lighting equipment' required by Standard No. 108.; Without knowing the size and photometric output of the lights, thei color and location, and whether they 'flash' in operation or are steady burning, we are unable to offer an opinion whether they are prohibited by paragraph S4.1.3. We would be happy to provide you with our views if you care to describe this system more fully.; Yours truly, Richard B. Dyson Assistant Chief Counsel