Interpretation ID: nht93-6.48

DATE: September 28, 1993

FROM: Thomas G. Cehelnik -- Ph.D., Accutron T.C.S., Inc.

TO: Office of Chief Council, NHTSA

TITLE: None

ATTACHMT: Attached to letter dated 10/22/93 from John Womack to Thomas G. Cehelnik (A41; Std. 108) and letter dated 1/25/90 from Stephen P. Wood to Larry S. Snowhite (Std. 108)

TEXT:

I am inquiring for information and assistance with the interpretation of Section 571.108 of the Federal Traffic Code. I was informed by the Office of State of Inspection of Pennsylvania that lights that indicate braking must be "steady burning". Our company and others have developed a light system to indicate the deceleration of the vehicle. Pennsylvania has informed us that the NHAT Administration is investigating the safety of such a device. A question of concern: is it and will it become legal to turn on a warning or stop light that indicates the particular dynamic state of the vehicle? Must such a system necessarily be considered as a brake light? I would appreciate a copy of the regulations and any information on the status of the safety investigation. Assistance with interpreting the code is also appreciated. Thank you for your time!