Interpretation ID: nht95-4.61

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: October 17, 1995

FROM: Jim Young -- Wheeled Coach

TO: John Womack

TITLE: FMVSS Compliance

ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO 11/17/95 LETTER FROM Samuel J. Dubbin to Jim Young (A43; Std. 108)

TEXT: Wheeled Coach is an Ambulance manufacturer and is in need of a response to the following issues regarding customer specifications for options incorporated into, or in addition to FMVSS lighting.

"Brake override circuit for rear facing warning lights." The rear warning lights flash as warning lights until the brakes are applied, at which time they become steady burn. This option is in addition to the standard brake lights. If this is acceptab le, should the lights be required to meet all requirements of stop lights? (ie.; maximum luminous intensity, color, etc...)

Brake Enhancer" Standard or additional stop lights are made to flash on/off several times before going steady burn.

"Back-up alert strobes" Rear facing high intensity strobe lights that are activated when the gearshift lever is placed into reverse gear.

Taillight Flashers" Taillights or brake lights are flashed alternate to backup lights until brakes are applied, at which time they go steady burn. The option at times may be requested to only work of the rear doors on the ambulance are open.