New rule mandates alarms for unbuckled rear-seat passengers in new vehicles starting 2027.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has introduced a new rule that will require all new passenger vehicles to sound an alarm if rear-seat passengers do not wear seat belts starting in September 2027. The rule also mandates enhanced warnings for unfastened front seat belts. The NHTSA estimates this will save 50 lives and prevent 500 injuries annually. The rule applies to cars, trucks, buses (excluding school buses), and multipurpose vehicles weighing up to 10,000 pounds. Rear passengers have historically used seat belts less frequently than front passengers, with 2022 data showing 82% rear belt use compared to 92% for front seats.

3 months ago
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