Interpretation ID: nht92-3.23

DATE: 10/07/92

FROM: M. FRANCES PARTON

TO: JACK RICE -- OFFICE OF CHIEF COUNSEL, NHTSA

COPYEE: MR. BEN WATTS -- FLORIDA FLA. SECRETARY OF TRANSPORTATION

ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO LETTER DATED 11-25-92 FROM PAUL J. RICE TO M. FRANCES PARTON (A40; STD. 207; STD. 208; STD. 209; STD. 210)

TEXT: We purchased a 1992 Van to be used by me, a disabled person, for my transportation. We asked that they put swivel bases on the seats so that I could turn a half a turn to be able to get out of the seat and get into my three wheeler. This to transport me out of the van on my lift. We were told that there was a law stating that they could not do this.

I called the Florida Transportation Secretary and there office told me they knew nothing about this law. However, counsel from the HRS, stated that it was a Florida law, but my question was if that was so why did not the Secretary of Transportation not know of this. After trying several numbers I finally was given a Mr. Neil, counsel for the disabled in the Highway Traffic Safety He tells a bill #208, I believe was passed but that stated you could not put in the large windows in vans, but he thought that they were stretching the law in regards to seats. Mr. Neil was kind enough to refer me to you. I feel that I need to express that for a handicap person these will be necessary, because the alternative is an electric tract, which cost an estimated $ 1350.00, which I think is an exorbitant price.

I would appreciate hearing from you in regards to this matter.