US Passes Stricter Car Safety Rules

September 2005

Congress has stepped up to the plate and passed one of the most significant auto safety bills in over a decade. As a result, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is enforcing a number of stricter safety measures that will save more American lives.

For the first time, performance standards will be aimed at decreasing the likelihood of a rollover instead of just using the results to determine the star safety ratings. Also, 15-passenger vans will include frontal and side impact testing and rollover testing.

Consumers shopping for automobiles will be able to read government crash test ratings on the car window stickers. States with above average seatbelt usage rates will also be eligible for increased federal funding if they pass laws allowing police officers to pull over people who are not wearing a seatbelt.

In the future, Congress will also demand the following from the NHTSA:

• Improved vehicle roof strength rule in effect by July 1, 2008.
• New side impact tests in effect by July 1, 2008.
• Change in power window switches, making it more difficult for children to injure themselves by April 1, 2007.
• Tougher standards for preventing drivers and passengers from being thrown from their vehicles during an accident.
• A study done on the problem of vehicles accidentally backing over children.

Injured in a car accident? Put our experience to work for you.

For over 25 years, our attorneys have represented more than 30,000 people who have been injured in all types of accidents including car accidents. In addition our legal team has answered over 350,000 injury-related legal questions. When an injury from a car accident occurs and legal help is needed, experience counts.

Free Legal Evaluation

If you, or someone you care about, have been injured in a car accident, you can contact our law firm for a free evaluation by:

• Filling out a simple online form so we can evaluate your claim
• Calling toll free 1-866-227-6038. Our phones answer 24 hours a day/7 days a week

Our law firm will evaluate your claim free of charge and advise you on your legal rights to collect compensation. There is no obligation to use our services, and there is never a fee unless we get money for you.