U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood has proposed that all motorcoaches be fitted with lap shoulder seatbelts to better prevent driver and passenger ejections during crashes. Earlier this year the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) decided to review the causes of crashes and driver fatigue. If approved, the new rule would not go into effect until three years later. According to the NHTSA, deaths from rollover accidents could be reduced by 77 percent if lap shoulder belts are used. On average there are 19 occupant deaths out of an estimated 750 million motorcoach passengers each year.
“We’re committed to making sure that motorcoach travelers reach their destinations safely,” LaHood said. “Seat belts save lives, and putting them in motorcoaches just makes sense.”
The NHTSA is seeking public comment on the proposal for the next 90 days. Individuals can present comments at www.regulations.gov. For more, log onto www.nhtsa.gov.