Interpretation ID: aiam4720
IL 60618;
Dear Mr. Baran: This is in reply to your letter to Taylor Vinson o this Office, with respect to 'D.O.T. guidelines for tail light brightness' with respect to a 'brake light for the back of a motor cycle helmet.' I regret the delay in responding. The Department has no authority to 'approve' or 'disapprove' items of equipment, but we can provide guidance on the relationship of equipment to the Federal motor vehicle safety standards. I enclose a copy of a l982 interpretation with respect to a similar device, a headlamp intended for installation on a motorcycle helmet. It also represents our views with respect to your device. I enclose also a copy of SAE Standard J586c Stop Lamps, which our Rulemaking office promised you. We note that you use the term 'tail light' and 'brake light' interchangeably. In seeking State guidance you should be clear as to whether your device indicates the presence of the cyclist (taillamp), or the application of the brakes of the motorcycle (stop lamp), or both. Sincerely, Stephen P. Wood Acting Chief Counsel Enclosure;