Interpretation ID: nht91-6.14

DATE: October 3, 1991

FROM: Alan E. Willis -- Senior Transportation Engineer, Franchise Regulation Division, City of Los Angeles Department of Transportation

TO: Paul Jackson Rice -- Chief Counsel, NHTSA

TITLE: TaxiCab Safety Shield/Partitions and Passenger Safety

ATTACHMT: Attached to letter dated 12-16-91 from Paul Jackson Rice to Alan E. Willis (A38; Std. 201; Std. 205; VSA 108(a)(2)(A))

TEXT:

The City of Los Angeles plans to require the installation of safety shields in all taxicabs which may be 1982 model year and newer. The installation is intended to deter or prevent crimes against the taxicab driver. Such mandated installations will be similar to laws existing in other cities such as Oakland, California and Tampa, Florida. We are concerned for the safety of the rear seat passenger who may impact the rigid shield in a sudden stop and question the compliance of the shield with any Federal auto safety regulations.

In talking with Mr. John Rigby of your staff on September 18, 1991, it was determined that 49 CFR, Sections 571.201 (Occupant Protection) and 571.205 (glazing Materials) may apply. He suggested that we write to you to request an official determination on the issue. If you have any questions, please contact me or David Leatherman at (213) 485-4817.

ATTACHMENT

Tentative Resolution Board Order No. 484 Board of Transportation Commissioners City of Los Angeles

(Text of attachment omitted)