Vehicles with Smart Features Must Report Crashes
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) this week used its authority to issue a Standing General Order that requires manufacturers and operators of vehicles equipped with certain driver assistance systems to report vehicle crashes. By mandating crash reporting, the agency will be able to access critical data in order to promptly identify safety issues that may emerge with regard to the automated systems. The agency feels that by gathering the data, public confidence in the automated systems may increase since there will be known oversight.
What Does the Crash Reporting Order Say?
Some requirements of the order:
- Crashes that involve hospital treatment, a towed vehicle, deployment of an airbag, or a bicyclist or pedestrian must be reported within one day of learning of the incident. Then within 10 days, an updated report is due.
- All other types of crashes that involve property damage or injuries must be reported every month. If any additional or new information is received, those updates are also reported monthly.
- Any reportable crash of which the manufacturer has notice must be reported.
- Reports are to be submitted electronically to the NHTSA via their form. The information submitted via the electronic form will be used to identify incidents that require follow-up.
- Companies must report crashes where the features were engaged during or just before the collision.
The Intent of the Crash Reporting Order
The data will help the agency increase transparency and identify potential safety concerns resulting from the use of advanced vehicle technologies on public streets. The data may reveal patterns in driverless vehicle collisions or systematic operation problems.
Order Applies to Vehicles with Advanced Tech Features
The types of driver-assistive features referenced in the order include some that are becoming more and more common on new vehicles, such as adaptive cruise control (ACC) and lane-centering assistance. Despite the advanced technology, drivers must continue to remain alert and engaged when behind the wheel. The features are not intended to take over completely for the driver. ADS-equipped vehicles, on the other hand, are able to perform the entire task of driving under limited circumstances. Such vehicles are not being sold currently but are undergoing testing on public roads around the country.
Watch the YouTube video. The clip below further explains the details of the NHTSA’s order.
NHTSA Authority Not Limited by Order
Oversight by the NHTSA is not limited to the types of crashes specified in the order or by that information submitted by reporters. The agency’s analysis will include all incidents and information relevant to any potential safety issues. In addition, the NHTSA could decide to take further action on any individual collision, including dispatching a Special Crash Investigations team and requiring additional information from a company. The agency may also initiate defect investigations, as required.
Additional information about the order can be found on the NHTSA’s website.
Fairfield Car Accident Lawyer
Hello, and thank you for reading as we explore the new NHTSA mandate on crash reporting. I’m Ed Smith, a Fairfield, California car accident lawyer. Traffic accidents occur with alarming frequency in California, and many times they result in severe injuries to the vehicle occupants. If you have been injured in a crash caused by another motorist’s negligence, please reach out to us for compassionate, free, and friendly legal advice. Our telephone number is (707) 564-1900. We also provide a toll-free line for those outside the local area: (800) 404-5400. Alternatively, you may send your inquiry online.
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Photo: Pixabay
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