Interpretation ID: nht70-2.52

DATE: 02/03/70

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Clue D. Ferguson; NHTSA

TO: Bloom and Drobner

TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION

TEXT: Thank you for your letter of December 22, 1969, to the National Commission on Product Safety, which was referred to this Bureau for further reply. We have noted the Commission's response to you of December 29, 1969.

A review of our files has failed to produce any specific data relevant to the exact nature of the case you have cited. This is attributable to the fact that the accident investigation methodology on which we depend does not break out data in that particular category.

We would like to advise, however, that Federal rule making sections do address door latch releases, or handles, in a different aspect. We are particularly concerned over configurations of door handles which incorporate sharp features or which tend to protrade excessively, as those types of handles increases the likelihood of the door opening as a result of contact by the body of an occupant during a crash situation. Moreover, if they contain sharp features, they can contribute to increased injury levels resulting from occupant impact when the door remains closed.

I regret we are unable to be more responsive to your inquiry. Thank you for writing.

BLOOM AND DROBNER

DECEMBER 22, 1969

NATIONAL COMMISSION ON PRODUCTS SAFETY

I represent Mrs. Sarah Glover who was a passenger in a 1966 Pontiac. As she lifted up her purse, preparatory to disembark, the purse handle caught on the door handle and the door flew open.

I would appreciate learning if there have been any other cases similar to this in which design negligence concerning the operation of the door handle was the issue.

Thank you in advance for this courtesy.

December 29, 1969

SHERWIN DROBNER

We are in receipt of your letter of December 22, 1969.

As you may know, Congress created this Commission to develop the means to protect the consumer from unreasonably hazardous products used in and around the American household. The scope of inquiry is limited, however, to those products not now the subject of regulations prescribed under existing Federal statutes. These laws are enumerated in Section 6 of Public Law 90-146 (81 Stat. 466).

As your correspondence concerns motor vehicles, it would best be considered by the Department of Transportation. That agency is responsible for the administration of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 (15 U.S.C. 1381 et seq.). Accordingly, I am directing your correspondence to the Department of Transportation and have asked that they reply directly to you with a copy to this Commission.

Thank you for your interest in the Commission and its work.

LARRY A. SCHOTT CHIEF, INVESTIGATION UNIT

cc: DR. ROBERT BRENNER -- DOT

NATIONAL COMMISSION ON PRODUCT SAFETY

DECEMBER 29, 1969

TO: DR. ROBERT BRENNER -- DOT

We would appreciate your handling the attached correspondence as indicated below:

COMMENT

FOR DIRECT REPLY

FOR BACKGROUND BRIEFING ON WHICH TO BASE REPLY FROM THIS OFFICE

FOR SUITABLE ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OR OTHER APPROPRIATE HANDLING

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

Please furnish this office with a copy of your reply. YES

Your cooperation is very much appreciated.