Interpretation ID: nht89-1.52

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: 03/24/89

FROM: DAVID S. HUGHES

TO: ERIKA Z. JONES -- NHTSA

TITLE: NONE

ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO LETTER DATED 07/24/89 FROM STEPHEN P. WOOD -- NHTSA TO DAVID S. HUGHES; REDBOOK A33; STANDARD 108

TEXT: Dear Ms. Jones

In speaking to Mr. August Bergett, I was instructed to write to you concerning a lighting fixture I would like to put on the rear of my Tractor Trailer.

The fixture is an open faced box with measurements of 31 x 5 x 2 inches in size, and is made of 21 gage steel. The face is a separate piece made of plastic and is dark tint in color. This plastic face will have lettering on it, and will illuminate when the inside of the box is lit up. The lettering will spell "THANK YOU" or "THANKS DRIVER" as a courtesy message to passed motorist whom have motioned me to return to the right lane of traffic whether by turning on or off their headlights or slowing down etc. Most truck drivers when passing one another will turn on and off a regulated taillight, clearance light, identification, or hazard light to get this message across. This light is simply expressing a short message of thanks rather than turning on and off a regulated light.

It is designed to light up from a toggle switch which would be installed in the cab of the truck. All electrical wiring, connections and components would be consistent with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations, as would be the red lettering on t he face which will be the only illuminated part of the box. The box would be mounted on the rear of the trailer between the safety bar under the floor of the trailer. It could also be mounted directly behind the mud flaps. Either location for mounting would be out of the way of any regulated light.

There is also a possibility of selling the box. If so, I need to know the parameters to follow, as far as the NHTSA is concerned, and the liability factor to me that a light like this would have if sold to another. I suppose what I am asking for in thi s letter is some sort of proof of acceptance or approval, or simply an acknowledgment of the box, its design, and purpose etc.

Thank you for your time and efforts, I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,