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CMV Stop Lamp Requirements

Entry DateApril 15, 2009
Issue Number09-021-VEH
NameTrooper Richard Koontz
AgencyPennsylvania State Police
Address1850 Arsenal Blvd.Harrisburg, PA, 17103United StatesMap It (opens in a new tab)
Phone814-285-3050
Fax(814) 623-7324
Email[email protected]
CommitteeVehicle Committee
StatusClosed
Summary of Issue

FMCSR section 393.22(b)(2) allows for the combining of turn signals with stop lamps provided the stop lamp function is deactivated when the turn signals are activated. Section 393.25(f) requires stop lamps to function whenever the service brakes are applied. The safety concern arises when a vehicle is operating with it's hazard warning lamps activated in that the hazard warning lamps override the stop lamp feature creating a safety hazard.

Justification or Need

When a vehicle is traveling down a grade with it's hazard warning lamps activated as required by state law motorists to the rear have no warning of the vehicle stopping.

Request for Action

This maybe a NHTSA issue and not FMCSA. However, I would like to amend the FMCSRs to require brake lamps override the hazard warning lamp feature on CMV's.