Mon Sep 09 15:46:20 UTC 2024: ## US Aims to Curb Pedestrian Deaths with New Vehicle Design Standards
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced plans to implement new vehicle design standards aimed at reducing pedestrian fatalities and injuries. This comes amidst a concerning rise in pedestrian deaths in the US, with a 57% increase between 2013 and 2022.
The proposed rule, currently open for public comment, seeks to harmonize US regulations with a global standard already adopted by many countries. This would require all new vehicles under 10,000 lbs, including popular large SUVs and pickup trucks, to meet specific pedestrian head impact standards.
Currently, many passenger vehicles in the US already meet these standards, but the large SUV and pickup truck market, unique to America, will likely require significant design changes to comply. The new standards would subject vehicles to crash tests simulating a 6-year-old child and a 50th-percentile male pedestrian being struck at various impact points and speeds.
“We have a crisis of roadway deaths, and it’s even worse among vulnerable road users like pedestrians,” said Sophie Shulman, NHTSA’s deputy administrator. “This proposed rule will ensure that vehicles will be designed to protect those inside and outside from serious injury or death.”
This move is seen as a crucial step in addressing the growing number of pedestrian casualties and creating safer roads for everyone. The NHTSA is emphasizing its commitment to reducing pedestrian deaths and protecting vulnerable road users.
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